Indonesia-China Trade Relations: Top Traded Products & Bilateral Trade Data 2025

The trade relationship between Indonesia and China has become one of the most significant economic linkages in the Indo-Pacific region. What started as a basic commodity trade has evolved into a multifaceted economic corridor driven by industrial cooperation, investment, and regional supply chains. Both countries have spent decades deepening economic cooperation, but over the last decade, that cooperation has transformed into a massive, interdependent trading partnership. According to the latest Indonesia import data, in 2024, the total value of Indonesia imports from China reached $72.72 billion, while Indonesia exports to China accounted for $62.43 billion, as per the Indonesia export data and China import data. 

The total value of the Indonesia-China Trade reached a record high $135.15 billion in 2024, according to Asia trade data. The total trade between Indonesia and China accounted for $70.78 billion in the first two quarters of 2025. As of 2025, China remains Indonesia’s largest trading partner, a title it has held for over a decade. Indonesia, in turn, is one of China’s top suppliers of key raw materials essential for its industries, especially nickel, coal, iron, and palm oil. This relationship is not just about trade flows; it reflects how both countries’ economies are interdependent and strategically aligned under shifting global trade dynamics.

The Scale of Indonesia-China Bilateral Trade in 2025

Trade between Indonesia and China continues to expand in absolute value, even amid global economic uncertainty, as per the Indonesia-China trade relations. In 2024, the total value of bilateral trade was estimated at around 147 to 150 billion US dollars, making China Indonesia’s top trading partner for more than a decade straight. By mid-2025, the trend held steady, though signs of adjustment were visible due to softer global demand and commodity price fluctuations.

From January to June 2025, Indonesia’s exports to China were roughly 29.3 billion US dollars, while imports from China reached about 40 billion US dollars. This left Indonesia with a trade deficit of approximately 10.7 billion US dollars in the first half of the year alone. The trade gap has been a consistent feature of the bilateral relationship, as China’s manufacturing power translates into higher-value exports while Indonesia’s sales to China remain resource-based.

Despite this imbalance, the overall scale of trade reflects the intensity of interdependence. Nearly 40 percent of Indonesia’s non-oil imports come from China, while China absorbs close to a quarter of Indonesia’s non-oil exports. These shares underscore China’s critical importance for Indonesia’s external trade and the deep structural integration between the two economies.

Overview of Indonesia-China Trade 2025

Trade between Indonesia and China continues to expand in both volume and value. Despite global supply chain challenges, the partnership remains strong and resilient, as per the report on Indonesia and China trade.

• Total bilateral trade (goods & services) (2024): USD 148 billion

• Indonesia’s exports to China (H1 2025): USD 29.3 billion

• Indonesia’s imports from China (H1 2025): USD 40 billion

• Indonesia’s trade deficit with China (H1 2025): USD 10.7 billion

China accounts for approximately:

• 40% of Indonesia’s non-oil imports

• 23% of Indonesia’s total non-oil exports

This means China’s economic performance, its manufacturing demand, energy consumption, and industrial policy directly affect Indonesia’s export revenues and industrial growth.

Top Products Indonesia Imports from China: What Does Indonesia Import from China?

Indonesia imports a wide range of products from China, with some of the top items being electronic equipment, machinery, textiles, plastics, and iron and steel products. These imports play a significant role in supporting various industries and meeting the domestic demand for consumer goods. The top 10 goods that Indonesia imports from China, as per the Indonesia customs data and Indonesia-China trade data for 2024-25, include: 

1. Nuclear reactors and machinery (HS code 84): $17.09 billion

One of the top products that Indonesia imports from China is nuclear reactors and machinery, as per the customs data on Indonesia machinery imports from China by HS code. With a value of $17.09 billion, these products play a crucial role in powering various industries in Indonesia. The demand for nuclear machinery is expected to increase further in the coming years as Indonesia focuses on developing its energy sector.

2. Electrical machinery and equipment (HS code 85): $14.49 billion

Electrical machinery and equipment are another major category of products that Indonesia imports from China. With a value of $14.49 billion, these products are essential for the functioning of homes, businesses, and industries in Indonesia. The country relies heavily on China for high-quality electrical machinery and equipment.

3. Iron and steel (HS code 72): $3.64 billion

Iron and steel products are also among the top imports from China for Indonesia. With a value of $3.64 billion, these products are used in various sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure development. The demand for iron and steel is expected to remain steady in the coming years as Indonesia continues to grow economically.

4. Plastics and articles thereof (HS code 39): $3.47 billion

Plastics and articles made from them are another significant category of imports for Indonesia from China. With a value of $3.47 billion, these products are used in packaging, construction, and various other industries. The demand for plastics is expected to rise as Indonesia's population and economy continue to expand.

5. Vehicles (HS code 87): $3.24 billion

Vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles, are popular imports from China for Indonesia. With a value of $3.24 billion, these products play a vital role in Indonesia's transportation sector. The demand for vehicles is expected to increase as the country's infrastructure develops further.

6. Organic chemicals (HS code 29): $2.48 billion

Organic chemicals are essential imports for Indonesia, with a value of $2.48 billion. These chemicals are used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and manufacturing. The demand for organic chemicals is expected to grow as Indonesia's industries become more advanced.

7. Articles of iron and steel (HS code 73): $2.17 billion

Articles made of iron and steel are also popular imports from China for Indonesia. With a value of $2.17 billion, these products are used in construction, machinery manufacturing, and other sectors. The demand for articles of iron and steel is expected to remain robust in the coming years.

8. Mineral fuels and oils (HS code 27): $2.02 billion

Mineral fuels and oils are crucial imports for Indonesia, with a value of $2.02 billion. These products are used to power various industries and transportation systems in the country. The demand for mineral fuels and oils is expected to remain high as Indonesia's energy needs continue to grow.

9. Miscellaneous chemical products (HS code 38): $1.55 billion

Miscellaneous chemical products are also among the top imports from China for Indonesia. With a value of $1.55 billion, these products are used in various industries, including healthcare, cosmetics, and manufacturing. The demand for miscellaneous chemical products is expected to increase as Indonesia's industries diversify.

10. Furniture, bedding, & mattresses (HS code 94): $1.46 billion

Furniture, bedding, and mattresses are popular imports from China for Indonesia, with a value of $1.46 billion. These products are essential for homes, hotels, and other establishments in Indonesia. The demand for furniture, bedding, and mattresses is expected to remain steady as the country's population continues to grow.

Top Products Indonesia Exports to China: What Does Indonesia Export to China?

Indonesia boasts a diverse range of top products exported to China, showcasing the depth of its trade relations. Among the key exports are palm oil, coal, copper ores, natural rubber, and electronic equipment, highlighting Indonesia's abundant resources and manufacturing capabilities. These products play a crucial role in shaping the strong economic ties between the two nations. Indonesia is known for its rich natural resources and diverse range of products that it exports to various countries around the world. China, being one of the largest trading partners of Indonesia, imports a significant amount of products from the Southeast Asian country. The top 10 products that Indonesia exports to China, as per Indonesia shipment data and China import data for 2024-25, include: 

1. Mineral fuels and oils (HS code 27): $16.10 billion

Mineral fuels and oils are one of the top products that Indonesia exports to China, with a total value of $16.10 billion. Indonesia is blessed with abundant natural resources, including oil and gas reserves, which make it a major player in the global energy market. China's growing energy needs make it a key importer of mineral fuels and oils from Indonesia.

2. Iron and steel (HS code 72): $16.07 billion

Iron and steel products are another major export category for Indonesia, with a total value of $16.07 billion. Indonesia has a well-established steel industry, producing high-quality products that are in demand internationally. China's booming construction and manufacturing sectors drive the import of iron and steel from Indonesia.

3. Nickel and articles thereof (HS code 75): $6.26 billion

Nickel is a key export product for Indonesia, with a total value of $6.26 billion. Indonesia is one of the largest producers of nickel in the world, and China is a major consumer of this metal. Nickel is widely used in various industries, including stainless steel production, electric vehicle batteries, and electronics manufacturing.

4. Animal or vegetable fats and oils (HS code 15): $5.09 billion

Animal or vegetable fats and oils are essential products that Indonesia exports to China, with a total value of $5.09 billion, as per the customs data on Indonesia exports to China by HS code. Indonesia is a major producer of palm oil, coconut oil, and other fats and oils that are used in food, cosmetics, and biofuel industries. China's growing population and expanding middle class drive the demand for these products.

5. Pulp of wood (HS code 47): $2.87 billion

Pulp of wood is a significant export product for Indonesia, with a total value of $2.87 billion. Indonesia's vast forests provide an abundant supply of timber for the pulp and paper industry. China, being one of the largest consumers of paper products in the world, imports pulp of wood from Indonesia to meet its domestic demand.

6. Ores, slag, and ash (HS code 26): $2.78 billion

Ores, slag, and ash are important export products for Indonesia, with a total value of $2.78 billion. Indonesia is rich in mineral resources, including copper, gold, and bauxite, which are extracted and processed into ores, slag, and ash for export. China's heavy industry and infrastructure projects drive the demand for these products.

7. Miscellaneous chemical products (HS code 38): $2 billion

Miscellaneous chemical products are a diverse category of exports for Indonesia, with a total value of $2 billion. Indonesia produces a wide range of chemical products, including fertilizers, pesticides, and rubber chemicals, which are exported to China for various industrial applications. China's chemical industry relies on imports from Indonesia to meet its production needs.

8. Copper and articles thereof (HS code 74): $1.06 billion

Copper and articles thereof are essential products that Indonesia exports to China, with a total value of $1.06 billion. Indonesia is a major producer of copper, which is used in electrical wiring, construction materials, and electronic devices. China's manufacturing industry drives the import of copper and copper products from Indonesia.

9. Fish and seafood (HS code 03): $986.94 million

Fish and seafood products are popular exports from Indonesia to China, with a total value of $986.94 million. Indonesia's vast coastline and rich marine resources make it a major producer of fish, shrimp, and other seafood products. China's growing middle class and changing dietary habits drive the import of fish and seafood from Indonesia.

10. Organic chemicals (HS code 29): $916.77 million

Organic chemicals are a key export product for Indonesia, with a total value of $916.77 million. Indonesia produces a wide range of organic chemicals, including ethanol, glycerol, and fatty acids, which are used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food processing. China's chemical and pharmaceutical industries import organic chemicals from Indonesia for various applications.

Indonesia-China Trade in the Last 10 Years: Historical China-Indonesia Trade Data

Indonesia’s Top Exports to China (2025)

Indonesia’s export structure to China remains resource-heavy but is evolving as the country expands its downstream processing industries.
The top export categories include:

1. Mineral Fuels and Energy Products

• Coal remains Indonesia’s leading export to China, supporting China’s power generation and industrial sectors.

• In 2024, Indonesia’s energy exports to China were valued at around USD 16 billion.

• Even with China’s green transition, short-term coal imports remain strong due to cost advantages and energy security concerns.

Key points:

• Indonesia is one of China’s top three coal suppliers.

• Exports are concentrated in thermal coal used for power generation.

• Despite global decarbonization trends, demand remains resilient through 2025.

2. Iron and Steel Products

• Indonesia’s iron and steel exports to China surged to ~USD 16 billion in 2024.

• This growth is largely driven by Indonesia’s industrial policy mandating domestic ore processing before export.

• New Chinese-funded smelters in Sulawesi and North Maluku have turned Indonesia into a regional steel processing hub.

Highlights:

• Exports mainly include stainless steel slabs and semi-finished products.

• Most Indonesian steel exports go directly to the Chinese construction and manufacturing industries.

• The sector symbolizes Indonesia’s shift from raw ore to semi-processed industrial goods.

3. Nickel and Nickel-Based Products

• Nickel has become the flagship of Indonesia’s industrial strategy.

• In 2024, exports of nickel and related products exceeded USD 6 billion.

• In July 2025 alone, Indonesia shipped about 1.23 million tonnes of nickel products, with over 93% going to China.

Key facts:

• China is the largest consumer of Indonesian nickel, mainly for EV batteries and stainless steel.

• Investments from Chinese companies such as Tsingshan and CATL have built integrated supply chains in Indonesia.

• Nickel exports highlight Indonesia’s successful downstreaming policy, turning ore into processed materials for greater value capture.

4. Palm Oil and Derivatives

• Indonesia’s palm oil exports to China are consistently strong, valued at around USD 5 billion annually.

• Palm oil is essential for China’s food processing, cosmetics, and chemical sectors.

Highlights:

• China is Indonesia’s second-largest palm oil market after India.

• Growth in demand for renewable biofuels could further boost palm oil exports in 2025–26.

• Sustainability certification and deforestation concerns remain key policy issues for both sides.

5. Pulp, Paper, and Wood Products

• Exports of pulp and paper products to China stand at around USD 2.8 billion per year.

• Wood-based exports support both China’s packaging and furniture industries.

Insights:

• China’s growing e-commerce and packaging needs sustain demand for pulp imports.

• Indonesia’s pulp industry benefits from competitive raw material availability but faces pressure to ensure sustainable forestry practices.

6. Ores, Slag, and Ash

• Although raw ore exports have declined due to domestic processing mandates, refined mineral exports continue to rise.

• Valued at around USD 2.7 billion annually, this category reflects Indonesia’s transition from raw materials to processed exports.

China’s Top Exports to Indonesia (2025)

China’s exports to Indonesia underscore its position as the world’s largest manufacturing hub. Most imports from China are machinery, electronics, and industrial materials, inputs essential for Indonesia’s development agenda.

1. Machinery and Mechanical Equipment

• Valued at USD 17 billion in 2024, this is Indonesia’s top import category from China.

• Includes heavy machinery, construction tools, turbines, pumps, and industrial manufacturing systems.

Why it matters:

• Indonesian infrastructure and industrial projects rely heavily on Chinese-made machinery.

• Affordable pricing and large-scale supply make Chinese machinery dominant in Indonesia’s import mix.

2. Electrical and Electronic Equipment

• Imports worth around USD 14.5 billion include telecommunication devices, components, appliances, and consumer electronics.

• Chinese brands have become deeply embedded in Indonesia’s digital economy.

Key trends:

• Indonesia’s growing smartphone market is dominated by Chinese manufacturers (Oppo, Vivo, Xiaomi).

• Telecommunications infrastructure, fiber optics, routers, and 5G components, largely sourced from China.

• Strong import growth driven by digital transformation and industrial automation.

3. Iron, Steel, and Processed Metals

• Indonesia imports $3.6 billion worth of high-grade or specialized steel products annually.

• These materials are crucial for shipbuilding, automotive, and construction industries.

Insight: Despite exporting semi-finished steel, Indonesia imports higher-grade products not yet produced domestically, highlighting technological gaps in its steel sector.

4. Plastics, Chemicals, and Industrial Inputs

• Imports from China in this category total around USD 3.5 billion per year.

• Used widely in packaging, consumer goods, and manufacturing.

Trends:

• Chemical imports are rising due to growth in Indonesia’s consumer and pharmaceutical sectors.

• Indonesian manufacturers depend on Chinese raw materials for industrial plastics and coatings.

5. Vehicles and Automotive Components

• Automotive and EV imports from China are rapidly increasing, valued at USD 3.2 billion annually.

• Chinese EV brands (like BYD and Wuling) are expanding aggressively in Indonesia.

Highlights:

• Affordable EVs from China support Indonesia’s national push toward electrification.

• Local assembly partnerships are forming, but Chinese dominance in the EV segment is strong.

The Trade Imbalance: Structure and Implications

Indonesia’s trade deficit with China remains a structural issue rather than a short-term fluctuation. In 2025:

• Trade deficit USD 10.7 billion (H1 2025)

• Deficit is largely due to imports of machinery, electronics, and vehicles

• Indonesia’s exports to China are mostly resource-based, with lower unit values

Key observations:

• Indonesia exports bulk commodities, while China exports value-added products.

• This asymmetry drives persistent deficits but also reflects Indonesia’s stage of industrialization.

• The solution lies in building domestic manufacturing capacity and boosting technological capability.

Structural Drivers of the Indonesia-China Trade Relationship

Several underlying economic factors define Indonesia–China trade dynamics:

• Resource–Manufacturing Complementarity: Indonesia provides the raw materials China needs; China provides the industrial goods Indonesia relies on.

• Downstreaming Policy: Indonesia’s ban on raw ore exports has created a surge in local processing, attracting billions in Chinese investment.

• Industrial Integration: Chinese-funded smelters and industrial parks in Indonesia (e.g., Morowali and Weda Bay) create vertically integrated supply chains tied to Chinese industries.

• Belt and Road Cooperation: Infrastructure development, ports, railways, and power plants have deepened logistical and trade connectivity.

Sectoral Highlights

Nickel and Metals

• Centerpiece of the 2025 trade relationship.

• Nearly all Indonesian processed nickel is exported to China.

• The sector is supported by massive Chinese investment and local downstreaming laws.

Energy and Fuels

• Despite renewable pushes, coal remains vital.

• China depends on Indonesian coal for industrial use.

• Long-term outlook: gradual shift toward renewable cooperation.

Machinery and Technology

• Chinese machinery drives Indonesia’s construction and industrial growth.

• Challenge: achieving local capability through technology transfer.

Agriculture and Fisheries

• Growing opportunities in seafood, processed food, and agricultural exports.

• Indonesia can expand beyond raw palm oil into value-added agri-processing.

Opportunities for the Future

Both countries stand to benefit from evolving their trade relationship into a more balanced, technology-driven partnership.

For Indonesia:

• Strengthen domestic manufacturing to reduce import dependence.

• Expand export diversification, move from commodities to value-added goods.

• Develop EV, battery, and renewable energy sectors using domestic resources.

• Encourage technology transfer and local skill development in Chinese-funded projects.

• Explore new markets beyond China to minimize concentration risk.

For China:

• Secure long-term access to critical minerals (nickel, cobalt, copper).

• Support Indonesian infrastructure and industrialization for supply stability.

• Expand renewable and green technology collaboration to align with regional sustainability goals. 

Challenges and Risks Ahead

While the relationship is strong, several challenges could test its sustainability.

• Trade Deficit Pressure: Persistent imbalances may fuel domestic industry concerns in Indonesia.

• Environmental Sustainability: Rapid nickel and coal expansion has raised ecological and social concerns.

• Investment Dependence: Heavy reliance on Chinese capital may limit Indonesia’s economic autonomy.

• Technological Gap: Indonesia must ensure technology transfer to avoid long-term dependency.

• Geopolitical Risks: Tensions in the South China Sea and global supply chain realignments could influence trade routes and partnerships.

Outlook Beyond 2025

Looking forward, the Indonesia-China trade relationship will likely expand in scale and sophistication. Key trends shaping the next phase include:

• Growing focus on processed minerals over raw materials

• Increased cooperation in EV battery production and renewable energy

• Rising imports of green technology, digital infrastructure, and AI-driven equipment

• Continued Chinese investment in industrial parks and trade corridors

• Indonesia’s efforts to diversify markets and build industrial independence

If Indonesia can successfully integrate into the global green economy while deepening its industrial capacity, trade with China could evolve from commodity dependency into an equal industrial partnership.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Indonesia–China trade relationship in 2025 is one of deep interdependence, opportunity, and challenge. China remains Indonesia’s biggest market and primary supplier, while Indonesia is indispensable to China’s resource security and industrial ecosystem.

The trade data tell a clear story:

• Strong growth in nickel, steel, and palm oil exports

• Surging imports of machinery, electronics, and vehicles

• A persistent but manageable trade deficit

• Expanding investment ties linking resource extraction to industrial production

Indonesia’s next challenge is not just to trade more, but to trade smarter, capturing more value domestically and diversifying its export base. If both nations manage this balance, their economic partnership could stand as a model for sustainable, mutually beneficial regional trade in the decades ahead.

We hope that you liked our data-driven & insightful blog report on the Indonesia-China trade relations 2025. For more insights into the global trade data, or to search live Indonesia import-export data by country, product, or HS code, visit TradeImeX. Contact us at info@tradeimex.in for customized trade reports and market insights, as per your business needs.