Indonesia has recorded a remarkable trade surplus of USD 29 billion from January to August 2025, representing a 52.6% year-over-year increase. Exports during this time reached USD 185.3 billion—up 7.8% compared to the same stretch last year—while imports stood at USD 156.3 billion, rising only 2.3%. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa emphasised that this surplus amid active domestic production and consumption signals not only a robust economy, but also global demand still needs Indonesian exports to replenish it, contrary to concerns over a global economic downturn.
The growth has been driven primarily by industrially processed exports, especially crude palm oil (CPO) products and iron & steel, which have shown strong demand. Indonesia’s policy environment has contributed to this momentum: supportive trade policies—including a relatively low reciprocal tariff rate (~19%)—and expanding free trade agreements such as EU-CEPA and involvement with BRICS have opened further export market access. Overall, these developments suggest Indonesia is not only safeguarding its domestic production but also positioning itself as an increasingly influential player in global trade.
