DHL Express Inaugurates Surabaya Gateway and Service Centre, Aims to Boost East Java’s Competitiveness

• The new Surabaya Gateway and Service Center show DHL’s commitment to enhancing logistics infrastructure in East Java, one of Indonesia’s most vital industrial regions
• This facility supports Indonesia’s Vision 2045 that aims to position the country as a global logistics powerhouse

DHL Express has officially inaugurated its newest logistics hub in Surabaya. The opening of the Surabaya Gateway and Service Centre was officiated by Vice Governor of East Java, Dr. H. Emil Elestianto Dardak, B.Bus., M.Sc., Ph.D.; Senior Technical Advisor of DHL Express Indonesia, Ahmad Mohamad; and Senior Vice President, Network Operations & Aviation – Asia Pacific, Peter Bardens. Other key government officials and members of DHL Express Indonesia leadership team were also present. This inauguration marks DHL’s commitment to strengthening Indonesia’s logistics infrastructure and supporting national economic growth.

Emil Elestianto Dardak, Vice Governor of East Java, said, " The opening of DHL Express Surabaya Gateway is not just about strengthening East Java’s logistics connectivity, it’s about creating opportunities for businesses to compete on a global stage. This facility lays a critical foundation for Indonesia’s Vision 2045, aiming to position the country as a world-class logistics hub. Partnerships between government and the private sector are essential to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth. With Indonesia set to become a global logistics center and East Java serving as the economic bridge between east and west, the province is emerging as the New Gateway of the Archipelago, uniting national supply chains."

Located just 15 minutes from Juanda International Airport, the Surabaya Gateway and Service Centre is a purpose-built facility spanning 10,000 m², backed by a more than EUR 9 million investment from DHL Express. This strategic consolidates gateway and service center operations into a single, integrated location enhancing operational efficiency, streamlining shipment processing, and accelerating delivery timelines. By co-locating these functions, DHL optimizes resources, minimizes handover time between facilities, and ensures faster, more reliable service for customers, positioning the facility as a key driver of Indonesia’s logistics transformation.

Beyond the facility itself, the Surabaya Gateway strengthens connectivity across Asia. It is linked to DHL’s global network through multiple dedicated flights, connecting Surabaya directly to Singapore, where the South Asia Hub is located – one of DHL Express’s three regional hubs in Asia Pacific. This route enables faster transit times and seamless access to international trade lanes, empowering SMEs and exporters in East Java to compete globally. By integrating gateway and service center operations with strong regional connectivity, Surabaya is positioned as a critical node in the Asia-Pacific logistics network.

The integrated setup enables faster, more reliable logistics services across Surabaya, Gresik, Pasuruan, and Malang—areas known for their vibrant industries in textiles, furniture, leather, and consumer goods. The decision to consolidate was driven by the location’s proximity to Juanda International Airport, which allows for quicker access to air cargo routes and significantly improves service speed for customers in East Java and beyond.

Peter Bardens, Senior Vice President, Network Operations & Aviation – Asia Pacific, DHL Express, said, “Indonesia is one of the top 20 markets that we’ve identified to have the fastest growth potential. By investing in the Surabaya Gateway and Service Center, we are enhancing our network’s connectivity to better support Indonesia’s intercontinental and intra-Asia trade. I am proud to see how our team in Indonesia has brought this vision to life, and look forward to seeing this Gateway play a central role for many customers in Indonesia.”

Given the region’s anticipated growth trajectory, the Surabaya Gateway and Service Centre expects a 2% year-on-year increase in shipment volume. It supports direct loading, includes bonded import/export areas, enables Unit Load Device (ULD) build-up and direct transfer, and provides in-house Regulated Agent (RA) screening of air cargo—all in one integrated facility designed to boost efficiency and meet growing logistics needs in East Java.

“This facility is more than just a building—it’s a catalyst for economic growth, trade acceleration, and regional empowerment,” said Ahmad Mohamad, Senior Technical Advisor of DHL Express Indonesia. “Indonesia’s economy continues to show resilience and momentum. Similarly, East Java has emerged as a strategic trade hub, with exports expanding. Our investment in this region shows our commitment to enabling businesses to reach global markets faster and more efficiently, and our belief in Indonesia’s future.”

Indonesia’s economy has posted strong growth in 2025, with the first and second quarters growing by 4.9% and 5.12% year-on-year, respectively. East Java accounts for around 15% of Indonesia’s GDP and hosts a significant concentration of micro, small, and medium enterprises. This is driven by strong household consumption, rising foreign investment, and a surge in exports, especially of non-oil and gas commodities.

The inauguration of the new facility aligns with Indonesia's national vision, Indonesia Vision 2045, and supports the country’s transformation into a global logistics powerhouse. DHL is proud to contribute to this journey. connecting businesses, empowering industries, and delivering progress. With a strong presence in Indonesia, DHL Express operates seven gateways nationwide. This extensive network ensures that businesses. large and small can access global markets with speed and reliability.