Seizing the opportunities laying ahead, more business opportunities are opening up in Batam. Batam is open for any kind of industry. There is practically no restriction for industries to be set up in Batam. However, some industries are more suitable than others. The largest industry operating in Batam is the electronic and computer related industry such as components and parts, audio and video equipment, automotive parts, printed circuit board (PCB) makers, etc. This type of industry is most suitable because the supply of labor is not limited and easily trainable. Other light industries include fabrication of leather goods, shoes, garment, toys, consumer products, household products, and healthcare products.

There are some companies involved in heavy industry such as steel fabrication, pipe threading, oil exploration equipment, oil rig fabrication, offshore jackets, and heavy equipment. In addition to that, there are also 41 shipyard industries for repair and shipbuilding in Batam. With adequate hazardous waste control, the chemical industry is also allowed. Among chemical industries that are now operating in Batam are fatty alcohol factory, paint producing factories, pipe coating, and chemical companies.

Some well-known multinational companies which are already operating in Batam include: ABB, Ciba Vision, Epson, Halliburton, Hydril, Hyundai, Matsushita, McDermott, Nippon Steel, Pan United Shipyard, Philips, Sanyo, Schneider Manufacturing, Siemens, Sumitomo, and Thomson Television.