Jambi

Jambi – A glimpse into Sumatra’s urban gem

Jambi, a vibrant city on the eastern coast of Sumatra, serves as the capital of Jambi Province. It is strategically located along the Batanghari River, the longest river in Sumatra, which has historically been a critical transportation and trade route. The city's topography is characterized by low-lying areas and wetlands, contributing to its fertile agricultural land.

Socially, Jambi is a melting pot of diverse ethnic groups, predominantly Malays, with significant communities of Javanese, Batak, and Minangkabau peoples. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city's festivals, culinary traditions, and daily life, fostering a rich, communal atmosphere. Jambi is also home to numerous historical and cultural sites, including the Muaro Jambi Temple Compounds, a significant archaeological complex dating back to the 7^th century.

Investment opportunities in Jambi are expanding, particularly in agriculture, agribusiness, and natural resources. The local government has been proactive in improving the business environment, offering incentives for investors and streamlining bureaucratic processes. In addition, Jambi’s strategic location, with its river access and proximity to major shipping lanes, enhances its appeal as a trade and logistics hub.

Over the last five years (2019-2023), the industry accounted for 31.83 percent of the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) in 2023 or up from 27.89 percent in 2019. The second-largest contributor was the Mining and Quarrying Industry, making up 15.31 percent of Jambi Province's economy (down from 18.48 percent in 2019). This was followed by Wholesale and Retail Trade, Motor Vehicles and Motorcycle Trade at 13.30 percent (up from 12.14 percent in 2019). The next contributors were the Manufacturing Industry with a 9.98 percent share (up from 9.81 percent in 2019) and the Construction Industry with a 7.37 percent share.

In 2023, the GRDP of Jambi Province at current prices reached Rp 293.73 trillion, an increase of Rp 17.01 trillion compared to Rp 276.72 trillion in 2022. Based on the 2010 constant market prices, the GRDP also increased from Rp 161.73 trillion in 2022 to Rp 169.27 trillion in 2023, indicating an annual economic growth rate of about 4.66 percent.