In recent years, trade between the Middle East and Indonesia has flourished, propelled by strategic agreements such as the Indonesia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IUAE-CEPA).1 Additionally, negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement between Indonesia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are underway, aiming to further enhance economic ties.2
However, importing from the diverse markets of the Middle East presents unique challenges and opportunities. This blog will explore how to import from the Middle East, providing insights and guidance for importers and exporters navigating this evolving trade landscape.
Understanding Indonesia's import market from the Middle East
Indonesia's import market is heavily influenced by key industries such as petrochemicals, fertilizers, and agricultural products like dates. In 2023, Indonesia imported a total of $80.52 million worth of dates (fresh or dried), with a total quantity of 56.74 million kilograms. The main suppliers from the Middle East were Egypt ($23.03 million, 21.31 million kg), the UAE ($13.81 million, 10.33 million kg), and Saudi Arabia ($12.95 million, 10.94 million kg).3
Additionally, the demand for fertilizers, particularly phosphatic fertilizers, remained robust in 2023, with Indonesia importing about $120.85 million worth, mainly from Egypt ($42.94 million) and Jordan ($19.6 million).4
Understanding cultural and religious factors is essential in this context, as halal certification is a decisive factor for about 93% of Muslim consumers when choosing food products.5 Therefore, recognizing and respecting these cultural and religious considerations is essential for businesses aiming to meet import requirements and cater to consumer preferences effectively in the Indonesian market.
Top imported commodities from the Middle East to Indonesia
Mineral fuels and oils
The Middle East is significant to Indonesia's energy sector, supplying crude oil, petroleum products, and natural gas. In 2023, Indonesia imported approximately 332,750 barrels per day (BPD) of crude oil,6 with significant contributions from Saudi Arabia.
Pertamina, Indonesia's state-owned oil company, sources much of its refined fuels from Singapore, Malaysia, and India, while liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) predominantly comes from the United States, the UAE, and Qatar.7 These imports are essential for meeting Indonesia's energy needs, fueling transportation, power generation, and various industrial activities.
Dates and agricultural products
The Middle East significantly influences Indonesia's agricultural imports, particularly dates, spices, and other products. In early 2025, date imports reached 16,430 tons, a 55.73% increase from the previous month, with Egypt supplying 61.80% of these imports.8 These dates are especially popular during Ramadan, consumed to break fast and used in traditional dishes. Varieties such as Ajwa, Medjool, and Deglet Nour are highly sought after during this period.
Additionally, spices like saffron and cardamom are imported, enhancing Indonesian cuisine and holding cultural significance during religious holidays. This trend underscores the importance of Middle Eastern agricultural products in supporting Indonesia's culinary traditions and meeting the heightened demand during festive seasons.
Chemicals and plastics
The Middle East is a significant supplier of petrochemicals, fertilizers, and other chemical products to Indonesia. In 2023, Indonesia imported mineral or chemical fertilizers, phosphatic, totaling approximately $120.85 million, with substantial contributions from Egypt ($42.94 million) and Jordan ($19.6 million).9 These fertilizers are essential in Indonesia's agricultural sector, enhancing soil fertility and supporting crop yields.
Additionally, petrochemicals from the Middle East are vital for Indonesia's manufacturing industries, serving as raw materials for producing plastics, textiles, and other goods. This trade relationship highlights the importance of Middle Eastern chemical products in sustaining Indonesia's agricultural productivity and manufacturing capabilities.
Top trade partners: Middle East imports to Indonesia
The Middle East plays a pivotal role in Indonesia's import landscape, supplying essential commodities that support various sectors of the Indonesian economy.
- Saudi Arabia is a major source of mineral fuels, including crude and refined petroleum. In 2023, Indonesia's imports from Saudi Arabia totaled approximately $4.07 billion, with mineral fuels accounting for $3.32 billion.10 Despite import restrictions on certain products, Saudi Arabia also exports significant amounts of organic chemicals and plastics to Indonesia, supporting the country's manufacturing sector.
- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) serves as a key partner, providing mineral fuels and a variety of consumer goods. The UAE's strategic position as a trading hub facilitates the flow of goods into Indonesia, enhancing the availability of diverse products in the Indonesian market.
- Qatar is a significant supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Indonesia. In 2023, Qatar's exports to Indonesia included petroleum gas valued at $417 million,11 underscoring its role in meeting Indonesia's energy demands.
- Kuwait is a key supplier of crude oil to Indonesia, playing a significant role in meeting the country’s energy needs. In 2023, crude oil accounted for 60% of Kuwait’s total exports,12 making it the dominant product in the trade relationship between the two nations. The export of crude oil supports Indonesia’s energy supply and industrial activities, contributing to various sectors including power generation and manufacturing.
These trade relationships are further strengthened by ongoing initiatives, such as the free trade agreement negotiations between Indonesia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait. These discussions aim to enhance economic ties and facilitate smoother trade between the regions.13
Overcoming import challenges: Navigating Middle East to Indonesia trade
Supplier reliability and cultural differences
Establishing trust with Middle Eastern suppliers is crucial for successful trade relationships. Understanding cultural nuances, such as the significance of personal rapport and respect for local customs, fosters stronger partnerships. Clear communication and detailed contracts are essential to align expectations, prevent misunderstandings, and ensure smooth transactions.
Documentation and Halal certification
Accurate documentation and adherence to Indonesian customs regulations are vital for seamless imports. Notably, as of October 17, 2024, all food and beverage products entering Indonesia must bear halal certification,14 affirming compliance with Islamic dietary laws. This mandate extends to various consumer goods, emphasizing the importance of obtaining halal certification from recognized bodies. Importers should collaborate closely with suppliers to ensure all products meet these standards.
Logistics and temperature control
Managing extended transit times from the Middle East to Indonesia presents challenges, particularly for perishable fruits and goods like dates. Maintaining appropriate temperatures during transit is crucial to preserve product quality. Partnering with reliable carriers and utilizing refrigerated containers are effective strategies to mitigate spoilage and ensure timely delivery.
Customs clearance and religious holidays
During Ramadan and other religious holidays in Indonesia, import volumes often surge, leading to potential customs delays. Proactive planning, including anticipating increased demand and adjusting shipment schedules accordingly, is essential. Collaborating with the best logistics service providers can help navigate these peak periods, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and timely delivery of goods.
DHL Express: Connecting you to the Middle East market
DHL Express is a reliable partner for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of trade between the Middle East and Indonesia. With extensive expertise in Indonesian customs regulations, including the mandatory Halal certification for food, beverages, and other consumer goods, DHL Express ensures compliance, reducing delays and smoothing the customs clearance process of imports.
Leveraging our vast global network, we offer fast transit times, making it an ideal choice for businesses with time-sensitive shipments. Furthermore, we excel in temperature-controlled shipping solutions, ensuring the safe transportation of perishable goods like dates, by using refrigerated containers to maintain product quality throughout transit. DHL’s capability to offer customized logistics solutions also sets it apart.
By tailoring services to meet specific business needs, whether handling complex supply chains or ensuring timely delivery, we provide a seamless shipping experience. With DHL Express, businesses can trust that their shipments from the Middle East to Indonesia will be efficiently managed, fully compliant, and delivered in optimal condition.
Partner with DHL Express for seamless middle eastern imports
Importing high-quality goods from the Middle East offers significant opportunities for Indonesian businesses, from mineral fuels to agricultural products and chemicals. By partnering with a reliable logistics company like DHL Express, companies can streamline their supply chain, ensuring smooth customs clearance, fast transit times, and temperature-controlled shipping for perishable goods. DHL’s expertise and tailored solutions make it the ideal partner for navigating complex import challenges.
To unlock these opportunities and enhance your business efficiency, create a business account with DHL Express today to explore their expert import solutions and take your business to the next level.
