Indonesia Posts 25% H1 Trade Surplus Driven by US, India Exports

Indonesia experienced a strong trade performance in the first half of 2025, recording a 25 percent increase in its trade surplus to $19.48 billion, continuing a surplus streak for 66 months. This growth was driven by a 7.7 percent rise in exports to $135.41 billion, led by key commodities including palm oil, base metals, agricultural products, semiconductors, and electronic components. The United States, India, and the Philippines were the top export destinations, with exports to the U.S. notably surging ahead of tariff negotiations. However, Indonesia faced a significant trade deficit with China, which amounted to $9.73 billion, largely due to imports of machinery, electrical equipment, and vehicles, with China remaining the largest source of imports at $40 billion. Coal exports declined by 21.09 percent, while exports of crude palm oil and iron and steel increased sharply. Overall, Indonesia's trade landscape reflects a diversifying export portfolio and growing trade ties with multiple countries, despite challenges posed by the trade deficit with China.