The automotive industry for Indonesia remains as one of its most important industries, which really helps shape Indonesia’s overall industrial landscape. While the Automotive Industry in Indonesia changed from being one of the top importers and automobile assemblers to a major vehicle-producing and exporting country. This was by strategic investments on the part of the Government of Indonesia. That is why sizeable market output and employment contribution to GDP by this sector hold much importance for the country.
This report elaborates on the contribution of the Automotive Industry in Indonesia to the economy, covering past trends, present statistics, and future potential.
Also read: Automotive Component Manufacturing in Indonesia
The automotive sector is a testament to Indonesia’s industrial strength, contributing significantly to GDP and opening countless doors to employment.
Sri Mulyani Indrawati (Minister of Finance, Indonesia)
Past Contributions of the Automotive Industry
Historically, it was in the 1970s that import-substitute policies began to mold Indonesia’s automobile industry. For the late 1980s and 1990s, the emphasis is on local manufacture and developing a rich supply chain, and by the year 2010, it was already playing a significant role in the market of ASEAN.
In 2015, the automotive sector contributed about 7% of Indonesia’s GDP, which is equivalent to an economic contribution of nearly IDR 700 trillion. Exports, especially from major manufacturers such as Toyota, Mitsubishi, and Honda, were on a steady rise, showing Indonesia’s capability to cater to global markets.
Current Economic Impact
Market Size
As of 2023, the Indonesian automotive industry has grown substantially. The market size of over IDR 1,300 trillion includes the manufacture of passenger cars, commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and automotive components. The sector also has a global foothold through exports generating about USD 8 billion annually.
Employment Contribution
The industry employs over 1.5 million people directly and creates around 5 million indirect jobs through its supply chain and related industries. These employment opportunities span manufacturing plants, component production, dealerships, logistics, and services.
Contribution to GDP
In 2023, the automotive industry contributed approximately 9% to Indonesia’s GDP, marking a growth compared to previous years. The expansion is primarily driven by increased domestic sales, export growth, and the rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs).
Key Players and Output
Indonesia’s automotive output includes the production of 1.3 million vehicles annually, with domestic brands like Esemka and major global players such as Toyota, Daihatsu, Honda, and Mitsubishi dominating the market.
Automotive Exports and Foreign Exchange Earnings
The country is one of the prominent automotive export destinations for Indonesia. In 2023:
- 300,000 units were sold to more than 80 countries; major markets include the Philippines, Vietnam, and Saudi Arabia.
- Over 400,000 motorcycles were exported; the business would add IDR 25 trillion of added revenue.
- EV battery exports were estimated to hit USD 2 billion in 2024 as Indonesia will be one of the important players in the EV ecosystem.
The Indonesian government’s focus on transitioning to electric vehicles is projected to boost automotive exports further, with a target of exporting 600,000 vehicles annually by 2030.
Future Potential and Expectations
The Indonesian automotive industry is poised for robust growth in the coming years:
- It is targeted that by 2035, the sector’s contribution will reach 15% of GDP, worth IDR 2,500 trillion.
- Fast penetration of EVs is also expected with Government incentives in the form of subsidy, tax exemptions, and major investments by the private sector.
- Another 500,000 extra jobs are also expected to be created from the local battery and components manufacturing of EVs until 2030.
With these initiatives, Indonesia is expected to remain one of the top automotive markets in Asia.
Also read: VAT Hike to 12% on Automobiles in Indonesia in January 2025
Challenges and Opportunities
Challenges
Infrastructure Development: The industry still faces significant challenges, such as road infrastructure and problems relating to logistics costs, despite the growth the industry is witnessing.
Transition to EVs: Investing in charging infrastructures and incentives for shifting from traditional vehicles to EVs require huge investments.
Regulatory Barriers: Overly convoluted tax regulations and bureaucratic hurdles might keep the foreign investment away.
Opportunities
EV Leadership: Indonesia has massive nickel reserves, an essential element in lithium-ion batteries, and hence is poised to become a world leader in electric vehicle manufacturing.
Rising Middle Class: An expanding middle class with higher disposable income is boosting demand for both conventional and electric vehicles.
Regional Integration: Indonesia’s membership in the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement helps ease the trade of automobiles within the region.
Government Support and Policies
The Indonesian government has launched multiple initiatives to boost the automotive sector:
- Luxury Tax Reduction: The luxury sales tax (PPnBM) was reduced for specific car categories to encourage domestic purchases.
- EV Incentives: Subsidies of up to IDR 70 million for EV buyers aim to accelerate adoption.
- Export Targets: Policies aim to make Indonesia a regional automotive export hub.
These policies create a favorable environment for both local manufacturers and foreign investors.
Indonesia’s automotive industry data:
| Category | 2015 | 2020 | 2023 | 2030 (Projection) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GDP Contribution | IDR 700 trillion | IDR 1,000 trillion | IDR 1,300 trillion | IDR 2,500 trillion |
| Vehicle Exports (units) | 150,000 | 250,000 | 300,000 | 600,000 |
| Motorcycle Exports (units) | 200,000 | 350,000 | 400,000 | 700,000 |
| Employment | 4.5 million | 5.2 million | 6.5 million | 7.5 million |
Also read: Automotive Export and Import Statistics in Indonesia
Conclusion
Automotive has been a fundamental part of the Indonesian economy since it significantly contributed to GDP, employment, and exports. Indeed, with its market size above IDR 1,300 trillion, millions of jobs, and the domestic and international markets so vibrant, this industry remains to be a momentum for Indonesia.
Future prospects are as bright, driven by Government programs and a renewed focus on electric vehicles that can steer the industry toward sustainability and innovation. As challenges continue, the sector is resilient and able to adapt to its place in the nation’s economic tapestry.
The automotive sector contributes much more than just figures; it impacts the industrial and social fabric of the nation, positioning Indonesia firmly in the world’s automotive market.