Airlangga was born on October 1, 1962, and grew up in a family close to Indonesian politics, Airlangga assumed the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs role in 2019 under President Joko Widodo and continues until the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto. Previously, he led the Ministry of Industry from 2016 to 2019.

Airlangga graduated from University of Gadjah Mada in 1987 with Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering. In 1996, Airlangga obtain Master of Management Technology from The University of Melbourne and later on also graduated from Monash University Melbourne with Master of Business Administration in 1997. With a very comprehensive background of experience as a businessman, legislator, and minister, The Korea Development Institute (KDI) School of Public Policy awarded Doctor Honoris Causa in the field of Development Policy to Airlangga in 2019.

As a Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga led the Committee for Handling COVID-19 and National Economic Recovery (KPCPEN) to navigate Indonesia out of the COVID-19 outbreak by implementing various strategic steps, integrating the aspects of health management with the national economic recovery.

During Indonesia’s G20 Presidency in 2022, Airlangga led the G20 Sherpa Track. In 2023, Airlangga was also at the forefront, leading the ASEAN process under Indonesia’s chairmanship, which focused on three main aspects: building regional growth, promoting the digital economy, and supporting sustainable development.

Airlangga continues to lead Indonesia's active participation in various international forums to strengthen Indonesia’s position in the global economy and realise inclusive and sustainable national economic growth.