Indonesia Records Trade Surplus for 69 Consecutive Months

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso announced a positive performance in Indonesia’s trade balance at the start of 2026, with a surplus of USD 0.95 billion in January.

This achievement extends Indonesia’s uninterrupted trade surplus streak to 69 months since May 2020, driven primarily by the non-oil and gas sector, which contributed USD 3.23 billion.

“The January 2026 surplus continues Indonesia’s trend of consistent trade surpluses for 69 straight months. This reflects the resilience of our national trade sector amid global uncertainty,” Minister Budi said in Jakarta on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

Exports grew 3.39 percent compared to the previous period, reaching USD 22.16 billion. Rising global prices for tin and nickel boosted export earnings, with the processing industry dominating Indonesia’s export structure, contributing 83.53 percent.

The United States emerged as Indonesia’s largest trade partner, generating a surplus of USD 1.55 billion, followed by India and the Philippines. Tin prices surged 67.29 percent internationally, while palm-based products and nickel also recorded strong growth.

“The three non-oil and gas commodities with the highest export growth in January were tin and its derivatives, which rose 191.38 percent year-on-year,” Minister Budi explained.

Imports also increased by 18.21 percent to USD 21.20 billion, driven by a 35.23 percent rise in capital goods, signaling stronger domestic manufacturing activity. Indonesia’s Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index climbed from 51.2 in December 2025 to 52.6 in January 2026, indicating robust expansion. Consumer Confidence Index also rose from 123.5 to 127.0.

China remained Indonesia’s largest non-oil and gas import partner, despite a trade deficit of USD 2.47 billion. The government noted a sharp increase in aircraft imports, which soared 1,288.48 percent year-on-year.

Minister Budi emphasized that Indonesia’s trade foundation remains solid and stable, supported by consistent surpluses and strengthening industrial exports. “Overall, January 2026 trade performance reflects a strong foundation at the start of the year, underpinned by sustained surplus and the growth of the processing industry,” he said. (Misni Parjiati/Sri Wahyuni)