For nearly six years, Indonesia has consistently recorded a trade surplus. January 2026 added another month to the streak, marking 69 consecutive months of positive trade performance. This achievement reflects both the resilience of Indonesia’s export sector and its ability to adapt to shifting global market conditions.
Key Facts & Background
- Trade Surplus Value: Indonesia posted a surplus of US$0.95 billion in January 2026.
- Exports vs. Imports: Exports totaled US$22.16 billion, while imports stood at US$21.20 billion.
- Surplus Streak: The surplus has continued for 69 consecutive months, beginning in May 2020.
- Non-Oil and Gas Contribution: Non-oil and gas exports recorded a surplus of US$3.22 billion, driven by commodities such as coal, palm oil, and iron & steel.
- Sectoral Trends:
- Non-oil and gas exports rose 8.19% year-on-year, contributing 6.54% growth to overall exports.
- Imports increased 18.21% year-on-year, reflecting stronger domestic demand.
- Oil and Gas Sector: Continued to post a deficit, offset by stronger non-oil and gas performance.
- Trading Partners: China, the United States, and India remain Indonesia’s largest buyers, sustaining demand for key commodities.
- Comparison with December 2025: The January surplus was lower than December 2025’s US$2.66 billion, reflecting seasonal export variations.
Disclaimer: AI-data analytics across multiple sources, with human editorial oversight.
Strategic Insights
Indonesia’s ability to sustain a trade surplus for 69 consecutive months highlights the structural strength of its export sector, particularly in non-oil and gas commodities. While the January 2026 surplus was smaller than the previous month, the long-term trend demonstrates resilience amid global uncertainties such as commodity price fluctuations, rising import demand, and geopolitical risks. For policymakers, this streak provides confidence in external stability but also underscores the importance of diversifying beyond resource-based exports to ensure sustainable growth.