Indonesia’s export growth in 2025 has reached a significant milestone, with total exports climbing to US$135.41 billion in the first half of the year. This marks a 7.7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024 and signals strong economic momentum for the country. Minister of Trade Budi Santoso emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating, “The national export performance in the first half of 2025 has shown positive growth, which is a strong signal for achieving the annual export target of 7.10%.”
Non-Oil and Gas Exports Boost National Growth
Non-oil and gas exports became the main driver of this performance, accounting for US$128.39 billion of the total. This category recorded an 8.96 percent year-on-year increase, compared to US$117.83 billion in the first half of 2024. In contrast, oil and gas exports declined by 11.04 percent, dropping from US$7.9 billion in the same period last year to US$7.03 billion.
Budi highlighted this dynamic by explaining, “The cumulative export increase was supported by the strengthening of non-oil and gas exports and the decline in oil and gas exports.” he said, as reported by Tempo.co. The surge in non-oil exports underscores Indonesia’s resilience and ability to adapt to changing global trade conditions.
Indonesia Trade Surplus 2025 Reaches US$19.48 Billion
The robust export performance also fueled a substantial trade surplus. Indonesia recorded a US$4.10 billion surplus in June alone, extending the country’s positive streak for 62 consecutive months since May 2020. For the first half of 2025, the trade surplus reached US$19.48 billion, up from US$15.58 billion in the same period last year.
According to Budi, “This surplus comes from a non-oil and gas trade surplus of US$28.31 billion, which managed to offset the oil and gas trade deficit of US$8.83 billion.” These figures reflect the strength of non-oil exports in maintaining Indonesia’s trade balance and supporting its economic stability.
United States Tops as Key Export Destination
The United States emerged as the top contributor to Indonesia’s trade surplus during this period. Exports to the US generated a surplus of US$9.92 billion in the first six months of 2025. This strong performance occurred despite reciprocal tariffs not yet being implemented.
Budi noted, “If we look at our trading partners, our highest surplus is with the US, contributing the largest surplus so far this semester.” This dominance highlights the continued competitiveness of Indonesian products in global markets and reinforces the importance of maintaining strong trade relationships.
Positive Signals for Annual Export Target
The first-half results send an encouraging message for Indonesia’s annual export objectives. The government set a 7.1 percent growth target for 2025, and with 7.7 percent achieved in the first semester, the outlook remains optimistic.
Budi expressed confidence in sustaining this momentum: “It’s a strong signal for achieving the annual export target. Our national annual export target is 7.1 percent, and in this first semester, it’s already 7.7 percent.” He also mentioned plans to push further export growth after the implementation of reciprocal tariffs, which could enhance market opportunities.
Indonesia Export Performance Signals Strong Economic Growth
Indonesia’s export performance in the first half of 2025 illustrates its robust economic trajectory. Non-oil and gas exports continue to drive growth, while the trade surplus strengthens the nation’s financial stability. With strategic efforts to diversify markets and sustain competitiveness, Indonesia is well-positioned to meet its annual targets and extend its positive trade record in the coming months.
Source: nasional.kontan.co.id, tempo.co
Image: RRI/Magdalena Krisnawati
