Indonesian govt says shipping sector backs one-stop export policy

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's shipping sector is ready to support President Prabowo Subianto's policy to channel exports of strategic commodities through a one-stop system managed by PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), Deputy Transportation Minister Suntana said.

He said the Directorate General of Sea Transportation plays a strategic role in the policy through its authority to issue Sailing Approval Letters (SPB) for commercial vessels.

"This is a challenge from the Head of State for us because we are at the forefront through the issuance of SPBs, which contain information on how many tons of cargo are being transported," Suntana said during the 2026 Day of the Seafarer commemoration in Jakarta on Tuesday.

According to him, President Prabowo has targeted foreign exchange earnings of at least US$65 billion annually from exports of coal, crude palm oil (CPO), and ferroalloys.

He added that the policy could generate state revenue of up to US$150 billion, equivalent to around Rp2,600 trillion, if implemented optimally.

"The potential could reach US$150 billion, equivalent to Rp2,600 trillion, which is higher than Thailand's national budget," he said.

Therefore, Suntana called on all Heads of Harbormaster and Port Authority Offices (KSOP) and field officers to fully support the policy and avoid any misconduct.

"So I ask all KSOP officers and personnel in the field to remain committed to supporting the government. Do not play around," he stressed.

According to Suntana, integrity is key to maximizing state revenue from export activities and preventing losses to the state and the public.

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He noted that the optimization effort currently covers only a limited number of commodities, meaning there is still considerable room to increase foreign exchange earnings from other sectors.

He added that the issuance of SPBs would continue to be strengthened, with previous challenges serving as evaluation material for future improvements.

The deputy minister also instructed maritime transportation personnel to strengthen internal oversight and ensure public services are delivered in accordance with regulations.

He emphasized that every employee has a responsibility to maintain public trust and ensure that sea transportation remains a key driver of national economic growth.

Suntana urged maritime workers to take pride in their profession by upholding ethics, professionalism, and integrity in carrying out their duties.

He expressed optimism that support from the shipping sector would strengthen Indonesia's export competitiveness and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

"Sea transportation participates in national development, nation-building, and generating state revenue. That is our contribution as a manifestation of our pride in the nation and the state," he said.

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Translator: Muhammad Harianto, Yashinta Difa

Editor: Anton Santoso

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