Indonesia’s state-owned port operator PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Pelindo) reported a 6% year-on-year increase in container throughput in the first half of 2025, reaching 9.3 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), buoyed by rising trade volumes and continued economic growth.
The company’s performance aligns with Indonesia’s GDP expansion of 5.12% in the second quarter, reflecting a broader economic recovery and an uptick in international shipping activity.
“Despite global uncertainties, we have managed to sustain a positive operational growth trend,” said Pelindo President Director Arif Suhartono.
“This momentum reflects the success of our ongoing business transformation and the operational improvements following Pelindo’s merger,” Arif said further.
The growth in container volumes was supported by increased activity on key international trade lanes, particularly the Indonesia-China corridor. At least three new routes are set to launch in 2025, operated by regional shipping lines such as SITC, Haiye Tong, and Pacific International Lines (PIL).
Japanese carrier Ocean Network Express (ONE), which services multiple import-export routes across Indonesia, reported a 5% rise in volume in the first half of 2025. ONE Indonesia President Director Keishin Watanabe noted especially strong growth on routes connecting Indonesia with China.
“Some routes are experiencing significantly higher growth, particularly those linked to major Chinese ports,” Watanabe said.
In addition to container throughput, Pelindo also reported a surge in vehicle handling via roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels. The company processed approximately 831,000 vehicles in H1 2025, more than double the same period last year, marking a 105% year-on-year increase.
To support the rise in traffic, Pelindo is stepping up efforts to improve operational safety and logistics efficiency at its terminals. Measures include the enforcement of vehicle height limits and the installation of weighbridges at several key ports.