Top 10 Indonesia export commodities: Indonesia export data

Indonesia is recognized as one of the leading exporters of commodities worldwide, ranking 28th out of 226 countries, according to the Indonesia Export Data and Trade Data Report for 2023.¹ A significant driver of this success is the country's abundant natural resources, which form the backbone of its export commodities. Major export categories include mineral fuels, animal and vegetable oils, and iron and steel.²

The nation’s export sector plays a vital role in supporting economic growth, driving job creation, and contributing to the country's overall prosperity. Gaining insights into Indonesia’s top export commodities enables business owners to better identify potential opportunities and strategically position themselves to tap into the growing global demand.

The rich landscape of Indonesia's export market

What makes Indonesia so competitive in the export market is its diverse range of commodities. A blend of abundant natural resources and manufactured goods, the country's exports encompass a diverse array of products across multiple categories, making it an enticing destination for global buyers. These are some of the top export commodities from Indonesia, based on the statistics from Trading Economics:³

1. Energy

Indonesia boasts abundant reserves of coal, oil, gas, and critical minerals, supplying key markets worldwide. With the strong global demand for energy and raw materials, Indonesia's energy exports continue to play a crucial role in supporting industrial growth and economic development.

a. Coal and mineral resources

Market overview: Indonesia is a significant player in the global mining industry, with some estimates suggesting that the country contributes more than a quarter of the world's mineral supply. It is a significant producer of key resources, including coal, copper, gold, tin, bauxite, and nickel. Notably, Indonesia holds the largest nickel reserves in the world and consistently ranks among the top three global producers of both coal and nickel. Demand for these resources is often tied to global industrial activity and patterns of energy consumption.⁴

Challenges and opportunities: Fluctuations in global commodity prices and environmental concerns regarding coal usage present ongoing challenges.⁵ However, Indonesia's vast reserves and established mining infrastructure offer significant opportunities to capitalize on sustained global energy demand and the growing need for minerals in manufacturing and technology.⁶

Logistics and trade: Exporting coal and minerals requires careful storage, transportation via specialized bulk carriers, and adherence to strict customs documentation due to environmental regulations. Should you need a partner to help you with addressing these logistics and shipping challenges, DHL Express can deliver. We offer tailored logistics for mining commodities, including secure handling, fast customs clearance expertise, and an extensive global network that ensures timely deliveries to major industrial hubs.

2. Agriculture

Indonesia’s agricultural sector is one of the main contributors to the nation’s export economy. From palm oil to specialty coffee and natural rubber, Indonesia's agricultural commodities are recognized worldwide for their quality and scale. Growing global demand, particularly for sustainable and traceable goods, offers exciting opportunities for expansion.

a. Palm oil

Market overview: In 2023, Indonesia produced 47 million tonnes of crude palm oil, reinforcing its status as the world’s leading exporter and accounting for 54% of global palm oil exports. The palm oil industry has become a vital component of Indonesia’s economy, contributing approximately 4.5% to the nation's GDP and supporting the livelihoods of over 16.2 million people through direct and indirect employment. While international demand continues to drive growth, the domestic market is also playing an increasingly significant role.⁷

Challenges and opportunities: Environmental concerns related to deforestation and sustainable palm oil production pose significant challenges. To address this, initiatives such as the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) have established certification standards to encourage responsible production. Certified producers must meet strict criteria related to preventing deforestation, conserving biodiversity, and upholding the rights of local communities.

Moreover, the Indonesian government has taken significant steps to foster sustainability in the palm oil sector. Policies include a moratorium on issuing new plantation permits in primary forests and peatlands, along with stronger enforcement of environmental regulations. These measures aim to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship, as well as long-term land management.⁸

Logistics and trade: When exporting palm oil, businesses are faced with several challenges, including proper storage and strict documentation for sustainability certifications. However, partnering with logistics providers like DHL Express can streamline the process. With expertise in logistics and shipping, DHL Express offers services such as cold chain logistics, end-to-end shipment tracking, and customs clearance, ensuring that your palm oil exports are delivered efficiently and in compliance with international standards.

b. Coffee

Market overview: The Indonesian coffee market, valued at US$ 16.83 billion, benefits greatly from the country’s favorable geographic and climatic conditions, which support robust coffee production. As one of the world’s leading producers of Arabica and Robusta beans, Indonesia has established a strong presence in the global coffee industry. Domestic consumption continues to grow, driven by the increasing popularity of café culture in urban areas, while coffee exports remain a significant contributor to national revenue.

Challenges and opportunities: Despite the strength of Indonesia’s coffee market, price volatility and limited technological advancements pose significant challenges to its continued growth. To address these issues, government initiatives are underway to promote sustainable agriculture and invest in climate-resilient farming practices, thereby supporting the long-term viability of coffee production. Additionally, the growing global demand for specialty coffee offers promising opportunities for coffee-producing regions such as Gayo in Aceh and Toraja in Sulawesi, known for their Arabica and Liberica varieties.⁹

Logistics and trade: Coffee exporters must ensure their beans are stored in dry, well-ventilated conditions to prevent deterioration. Additionally, compliance with agricultural export regulations is a vital aspect, as coffee is subject to strict international standards to ensure safety, traceability, and sustainability.

DHL Express understands these challenges and provides tailored logistics solutions that ensure the safe and efficient transit of goods to their destination. With real-time shipment tracking, coffee exporters can monitor their cargo at every stage, giving them peace of mind and the ability to respond quickly to any potential issues. Furthermore, our expertise in customs clearance helps you navigate through the process, reducing delays and ensuring smooth transit from origin to destination.

c. Rubber or rubber products

Market overview: Indonesia ranks as the world’s second-largest rubber exporter, following Thailand. Its favorable climate and fertile soil create optimal conditions for rubber cultivation. The industry is predominantly centered on the island of Sumatra, home to extensive plantations known for producing high-quality rubber. Indonesia exported close to US$2.6 billion worth of natural rubber in 2023, as per Indonesia export data.

Challenges and opportunities: Rubber prices have been fluctuating due to the market excess of rubber and decreased demand. Moreover, rubber and other commodities have associated deforestation hazards subjected to more stringent regulations.¹⁰

However, there are significant opportunities arising from the increasing global focus on sustainable and ethically sourced rubber. Indonesia can capitalize on this by promoting and implementing sustainable rubber farming practices, potentially commanding premium prices in environmentally conscious markets.

Furthermore, the development of higher-value downstream rubber products within Indonesia, such as specialized industrial components or eco-friendly consumer goods, could diversify the export portfolio. This could also reduce reliance on raw material exports.

Logistics and trade: For rubber exports, maintaining consistent temperature conditions is essential to prevent degradation during transit. DHL Express offers customized logistics solutions designed to meet these specific needs, including temperature-controlled transportation to ensure the quality and integrity of the rubber throughout its journey.

3. Metals and precious stones

Rich mineral resources from Indonesia extend beyond energy. From iron and steel to pearls and precious stones, Indonesia has built a strong export foundation in raw materials and luxury commodities that are highly sought after around the world.

a. Iron and steel

Market overview: According to the Minister of Trade, Indonesia ranks as the fourth-largest steel exporter by value as of 2024, with its iron and steel industry on an upward trajectory. The sharp increase in exports, now exceeding imports, reflects a significant shift in market dynamics, positioning Indonesia as a rising competitive force in the global iron and steel sector.

Challenges and opportunities: Competition from established global steel producers and the need for technological upgrades in production are key challenges. According to statistics, 62% of the iron and steel industry remains underutilised, far from the ideal threshold of 80%. However, government support for infrastructure development and the potential to tap into growing demand in emerging economies present significant opportunities for expansion in the iron and steel export sector.¹¹

Logistics and trade: Exporting iron and steel from Indonesia necessitates careful logistical planning, including appropriate storage facilities at ports to protect materials from the elements, efficient bulk transportation via sea freight due to the heavy nature of the goods, and adherence to varying international customs regulations regarding documentation and material specifications.

DHL Express supports the export of samples, specialized steel products, and related documentation through international shipping services. We can provide reliable and timely express shipping, customs clearance expertise to navigate international regulations, and potentially specialized handling for high-value steel components or tools.

b. Pearls and precious stones

Market overview: Indonesia is among the world’s leading producers of cultured pearls, with pearl farms spread across the archipelago and multiple companies often operating within the same site.¹² In addition to production, Indonesia stands as one of the major exporters of both natural and cultured pearls, reaching an export value of approximately US$7.5 billion in 2023.¹³

Challenges and opportunities: The sustainability of pearl farming and mining practices, as well as competition from other gem-producing regions, are important challenges. But the unique quality and origin of Indonesian pearls and stones, coupled with growing demand for luxury goods, offer opportunities for market expansion.

Logistics and trade: The export of pearls and precious stones requires stringent security measures and specialized handling to ensure the safety and integrity of these high-value items during transit. It also involves precise inventory management and adherence to customs regulations that often involve valuation and certification.

To companies within the sector, DHL Express offers secure shipping options, leveraging its vast network for efficient delivery and offering specialized handling to maintain the condition and security of these commodities. We also provide expertise in navigating complex customs procedures for precious goods, including assistance with documentation and valuation.

4. Manufacturing

The manufacturing industry in Indonesia has surged ahead in recent years, with electronics, vehicles, and footwear showcasing the country's growing capabilities in high-value production.

a. Electronic equipment

Market overview: The electronics industry in Indonesia remains a key driver of the country’s manufacturing sector. Recent figures show that the segment, which includes metal goods, computers, electronic devices, optical products, and electrical equipment, achieved a strong growth rate of 7.29% in Q3 2024. During the same period, the export value of electronic products soared to US$ 10.07 billion, fueled largely by telecommunications equipment, household appliances, electrical devices, and components.

Challenges and opportunities: Despite its impressive progress, Indonesia’s electronics industry still faces key challenges, including the need for a more highly skilled workforce, increased investment in advanced technologies, and enhanced infrastructure development. Nevertheless, with strong government backing and the dedication of major players in the industry, these obstacles present opportunities for further expansion.¹⁴

Strengthening collaboration among the government, private sector, and academic institutions will be essential to building a supportive ecosystem for sustainable industrial growth. By prioritizing innovation and sharpening its competitive advantage, Indonesia has the potential to further establish itself as a major force in the global electronics market.

Logistics and trade: Exporting electronic equipment requires careful handling to prevent damage and secure packaging to protect sensitive components. Efficient transportation is also crucial to meet the tight delivery schedules of the fast-paced technology market. Furthermore, navigating customs regulations, which often involve technical specifications and certifications, is essential.

DHL Express supports these exports through specialized handling for fragile electronics and an extensive logistics network worldwide for reliable delivery. We also provide customs clearance expertise to manage the specific documentation and compliance requirements for electronic goods. To ensure transparency throughout the logistics and shipping process, we provide exporters with comprehensive tracking and visibility throughout the shipping process.

b. Vehicles

Market overview: Indonesia’s automotive manufacturing market has seen notable growth in recent years, contributing to the global automotive industry, which reached a valuation of US$ 3.5 trillion in 2023. This expansion has been fueled by rising domestic demand, supportive government policies, and a steady influx of foreign investments. The southern region, particularly Java and Bali, is the dominating region in this sector with its concentration of manufacturing facilities, skilled labor, and robust infrastructure.

Challenges and opportunities: Although the industry has experienced substantial growth in recent years, it remains heavily dependent on imported components, leading to higher production costs and vulnerability to supply chain disruptions during trade disputes. Additionally, inefficiencies in the transport network continue to cause delays and raise operational expenses. To address these challenges, the government introduced the Automotive Industry Roadmap, which sets strategic goals for boosting local content in vehicle manufacturing. Efforts are also underway to develop dedicated industrial zones aimed at improving infrastructure and streamlining regulatory processes.¹⁵

Logistics and trade: Exporting vehicles and automotive parts requires specialized transportation to ensure safe and efficient delivery. This includes secure loading and handling of vehicles and durable packaging for individual components. Additionally, compliance with international customs procedures, such as vehicle identification numbers and component classifications, is essential for smooth transit.

With our extensive global network, DHL Express supports the automotive export sector by providing reliable express shipping for urgent parts and samples. We also provide customs clearance assistance to handle the necessary documentation and regulations specific to automotive goods.

c. Machinery

Market overview: Indonesia recorded 49,927 machine shipments between October 2023 and September 2024, with significant exports of office machine parts, as well as electrical machines and apparatuses. These exports involved 3,298 Indonesian exporters supplying 4,477 buyers, reflecting a 51% increase compared to the previous twelve-month period.¹⁶

Challenges and opportunities: Competition from established machinery producers in developed countries and the need for continuous technological upgrading are key challenges. However, increasing industrialization in emerging economies and the potential for specialization in certain types of machinery offer opportunities for Indonesia to expand its machinery exports.

Logistics and trade: Exporting machinery involves handling large and heavy equipment, which requires proper crating and secure transportation. Understanding the customs regulations of one’s specific machinery is crucial, as they vary by type and function.

To help exporters through this complex process, DHL Express offers express shipping for smaller parts and components, ensuring timely deliveries. Our professionals can also use their customs expertise to manage the necessary classifications and paperwork for the type of machinery being exported.

d. Footwear

Market overview: Footwear is another major export product for Indonesia. In 2024, the country’s footwear exports reached approximately US$7.1 billion, marking an increase from the previous year. Indonesian footwear has steadily gained international recognition for its craftsmanship, quality, and competitive pricing, solidifying its position in the global market.¹⁷

Challenges and opportunities: The footwear industry in Indonesia is grappling with major challenges, particularly around business licensing, as it strives to meet ambitious growth targets in the coming year. Moreover, issues such as land acquisition difficulties and bureaucratic delays continue to hinder progress.¹⁸

Having a supportive business environment backed by government support is crucial for driving positive performance in the manufacturing sector. Facilitating easier access to land at competitive prices, particularly outside industrial estates, could help streamline the land acquisition process. This, in turn, would create a more conducive environment for investment, enabling smoother operations and supporting the footwear industry's continued growth.

Logistics and trade: Exporting footwear requires effective packaging to protect products during transit and cost-efficient transportation, especially for bulk shipments. Additionally, exporters must navigate international customs regulations related to materials and labeling.

DHL Express supports footwear exports by offering reliable express shipping for samples and smaller volumes, providing timely delivery to international markets. Furthermore, we provide customs clearance assistance to manage the required documentation and regulations for footwear.

e. Semiconductors

Market overview: As global demand for semiconductors surges and nations race to secure their positions in the supply chain, Indonesia is emerging as a strategic player in this critical industry. The country’s advantage lies in its rich reserves of essential raw materials. The country is home to an estimated 25.33 billion tons of silica sand, an essential input in the production of silicon wafers used in semiconductor manufacturing. In addition, Indonesia is one of the world’s top producers of tin and nickel, two materials that play a vital role in semiconductor assembly and packaging.

Challenges and opportunities: While Indonesia’s semiconductor manufacturing sector is still in its early stages, its resource wealth offers strong potential for future development. With increasing interest from global technology investors and a supportive policy environment, Indonesia is positioning itself to become an integral part of the international semiconductor value chain.

However, it also faces various challenges, including a lack of advanced engineering talent and high costs associated with building production facilities. To overcome these, the Indonesian government has prioritized semiconductor development as part of its Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. This aims to reduce dependence on imports and bolster technological independence.¹⁹

Logistics and trade: As Indonesia positions itself in the global semiconductor value chain, efficient logistics will be essential to support the timely movement of raw materials, components, and finished products.

DHL Express offers time-definite international shipping services that are particularly beneficial for high-value and time-sensitive semiconductor parts. With our expertise in handling sensitive electronics, we ensure secure packaging and real-time tracking for critical shipments. Additionally, our services include customs clearance support tailored to the complex documentation and regulations involved in shipping semiconductor goods, helping Indonesian suppliers meet international standards and reduce delays.

As the sector develops, DHL Express’s scalable logistics solutions can accommodate increasing volumes and more complex trade routes, supporting Indonesia’s ambition to become a semiconductor hub.

f. Garments

Market overview: Indonesia’s textile and garment industry plays a critical role in the country’s economy, serving as its largest source of manufacturing employment. In 2023, garments and textile products accounted for 4.5% of Indonesia’s total exports, underscoring the sector’s significant contribution to national trade. The industry spans nearly the entire textile supply chain—from man-made fibre and yarn production to weaving, dyeing, garment manufacturing, and finished textile goods—giving Indonesia a vertically integrated advantage.²⁰

Challenges and opportunities: Despite its strengths, Indonesia’s garment export sector faces growing competition from low-cost imports, particularly from China, which continues to flood the expanding domestic market. Rising labor and energy costs further pressure local manufacturers, potentially undermining their cost advantage in global markets.

However, these challenges also present opportunities. As global demand shifts toward sustainable and ethically produced garments, Indonesian manufacturers can reposition themselves by adopting eco-friendly practices and obtaining relevant certifications. The country’s vertically integrated textile industry also offers potential for export diversification and value-added production, especially in technical or high-performance textiles.

Logistics and trade: For Indonesia’s well-established garment industry, which exports to a wide range of international markets, DHL Express helps ensure the reliable and secure delivery of clothing and textile products.

With the global fashion industry increasingly driven by speed-to-market and just-in-time inventory models, we offer shipping services that help Indonesian exporters meet tight deadlines and seasonal demand cycles. Our expansive global network enables seamless connectivity to key fashion hubs across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, ensuring efficient last-mile delivery and reduced lead times. This is particularly important for sample shipments, urgent replenishment orders, and high-value retail contracts.

Beyond transportation, DHL also provides customs clearance expertise and digital shipment tracking. These services not only enhance operational efficiency but also help garment exporters align with the growing global demand for transparency and speed in the supply chain.

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Indonesia's key export markets

Indonesia's main export commodities are shipped to a diverse range of international trading partners, reflecting the country's strategic position in the global economy. Some of the countries that Indonesia exports its top 10 commodities to include China, the United States, Japan, India, and Singapore, according to OEC.²¹ By catering to these key markets, Indonesia can tap into the vast potential of global trade and drive its economic growth.

In addition to these significant shipping partners, Indonesia also exports to many other countries, highlighting the nation's commitment to fostering international trade relationships. With a strong focus on regional cooperation, Indonesia continues to strengthen its ties with neighboring countries in the ASEAN region and beyond.

Partner with a premier service provider for seamless export solutions

As a key player in Indonesia's export market, choosing a reliable and efficient shipping partner is essential to ensure your commodities reach their destination without delay and in excellent condition. DHL Express is the leading service provider for businesses exporting Indonesia's top commodities, offering unparalleled expertise, an extensive global network, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.

With DHL Express, businesses can benefit from a range of services, including door-to-door delivery, customs clearance assistance, and shipment tracking options. This ensures transparency and efficiency throughout the shipping process, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations and expand their operations in the international markets while we expertly handle their export shipments.

Whether you're exporting palm oil or food products such as coffee, we can provide a fast and secure shipping experience from start to finish.

Ready to expand and maximize your export potential? Open a business account today and discover how we can help your export business thrive in the competitive global market.