The export sector plays a vital role in driving Indonesia’s economic growth. As reported by Statistics Indonesia (BPS), the country’s export performance between January and June over the past two years shows a fluctuating yet resilient trend. This reflects global challenges while underscoring the strength of Indonesia’s trade sector
How Resilient Are Indonesia’s Exports?
Source: Statistic Indonesia
Trade performance in the first semester of 2025 demonstrates strong resilience and adaptability. According to BPS, Indonesia’s total exports amounted to USD 135.41 billion, an increase of 8.25% year-on-year (YoY) compared to 2024. This recovery highlights Indonesia’s ability to navigate global market dynamics while gradually strengthening the structure of its exports
In terms of destination countries, China remains the largest partner with an export value of USD 24.25 billion (22.87%), followed by the United States at USD 12.11 billion (11.42%), and India at USD 7.28 billion (6.87%)
Shifting Tides in Indonesia’s Exports
Source: Statistic Indonesia
Compared with the same period in 2024, exports to China and the United States recorded steady growth. Exports to China rose from USD 22.39 billion (Jan–June 2024) to USD 24.25 billion (Jan–June 2025), while exports to the United States increased from USD 10.21 billion to USD 12.11 billion. On the other hand, exports to India fell from USD 8.86 billion to USD 7.28 billion
Although exports to India decreased, this reflects global adjustments in commodity demand. At the same time, it creates opportunities for Indonesia to strengthen export diversification, particularly in higher-value sectors such as processed steel, palm oil derivatives, and manufactured goods, which are increasingly in demand in other markets
From a commodity perspective (in comparison YoY 2024-2025), three key products stood out in 2025. Iron and steel recorded exports of USD 11.61 billion (+11.02%), supported by strong global demand and downstream industrial policies. Palm oil and derivatives reached USD 8.90 billion (+27.89%), reflecting higher demand for vegetable oils and biofuels. Meanwhile, coal exports declined to USD 10.26 billion (-19.10%), due to a drop in coal production by 8.47% compared to the first half of 2024, which reached 406.06 million tons. These developments show that while traditional commodities face headwinds, Indonesia is making progress in shifting toward higher-value and more sustainable exports, securing a stronger position in the evolving global economy
What Drove Indonesia’s 2025 Export Rebound?
Source: Statistic Indonesia
The rebound in 2025 was further supported by investment in downstream industries, particularly the development of nickel smelters and steel plants, which boosted non-oil and gas exports. In addition, government policies promoting downstreaming, market diversification, and incentives for the manufacturing sector enhanced the competitiveness of Indonesian products in international markets
Overall, the period of the first semester of 2024–2025 reflects the dynamic nature of Indonesia’s export performance. After experiencing a decline in 2024, exports recovered in 2025 with nearly 7% growth. Asia maintained its role as the dominant market, with China, India, and Japan as key partners, while the United States remained an important destination outside the region. Although natural resource-based commodities still play a leading role, the growing contribution of manufactured goods highlights Indonesia’s progress toward building a more sustainable and diversified export base for the future
Written by Nada Putri Naila – Kadin Business Service Desk
