Batam, Batamnews - Several European countries have started to show interest and dominance in investment activities in Batam City. This is evident from the investment realization data of Batam City in the first quarter of 2023.

According to data obtained from the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), there are 8 European countries that contribute to the increased realization of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Batam City.

These countries include Norway, Finland, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France. These 8 European countries contributed a total of USD 7.12 million with 55 investment projects in the first quarter in Batam City.

Europe ranks second in its contribution to FDI realization in Batam City, after Asian countries.

Muhammad Rudi, the Head of Batam Indonesia Free Zone Authority (BP Batam), stated that the interest of European investors to invest in Batam City is continuously increasing. Over the past two months, several European countries such as Turkey, Denmark, and Belarus have expressed their interest in investing in Batam City.

"Many of them have shown interest in investing in Batam. Some came directly to BP Batam, through embassies, business associations, and even via Zoom meetings," he said.

The attraction of Batam City as an investment destination by European countries is inseparable from the infrastructure development that has been carried out in recent years. Infrastructure development is the key to driving progress and modernization in a region. Good and reliable infrastructure is an important foundation for maintaining the smooth flow of the economy.

The development that has been undertaken in Batam City so far has had a positive impact on economic growth, reaching 6.85 percent in 2022.

"I am developing this to further advance the economy of Batam City. When the economy develops, the community will have better opportunities. I invite the public to not just be spectators but let us welcome this development with enthusiasm," added Rudi.