The Indonesian Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin) has highlighted the promising prospects of the domestic bus industry in enhancing competitiveness and boosting economic value added (EVA). Acting Director General of Metal, Machinery, Transportation Equipment, and Electronics (ILMATE) at Kemenperin, Putu Juli Ardika, stated in Jakarta on Monday that the bus industry shows bright prospects for 2024, offering promising opportunities for bus industry players in Indonesia. In 2023, national bus wholesale sales increased by 140% year-on-year (yoy) to 6,227 units, while retail sales grew by 59% yoy to 5,369 units. This significant growth indicates substantial opportunities for the bus sector's development. Putu emphasized that the creativity and design of Indonesian-made bus frames (karoseri) are among the best globally and are recognized for their competitive pricing. Indonesian bus bodies have also been accepted in various export markets.
Kemenperin has consistently supported the automotive industry's performance in Indonesia, focusing on expanding domestic market sales. The automotive sector is a priority for development due to its significant contribution to the national economy. The transportation equipment industry was the main driver of industrial GDP growth in 2023, with a growth rate of 7.63%, surpassing the overall industrial sector growth. This growth is attributed to the automotive sector's contributions. Previously, Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita mentioned that the luxury goods sales tax incentive borne by the government (PPnBM DTP) could address market stagnation and boost sales. This fiscal incentive increased domestic vehicle sales by 113% from March to December 2021 and by 95,000 units from January to May 2022. By continually promoting the bus industry's growth and leveraging creative and competitive designs, Kemenperin aims to sustain and enhance the sector's contribution to Indonesia's economy.
