Stefani Ribka, Jakarta – Exports in June declined by 18.82 percent month on month (MoM) to US$11.64 billion and imports were down by 27.26 percent to $10.01 billion, as the Idul Fitri holiday season arrived in June this year compared to last year, when the holiday occurred in July.
"As we all know, trade activities are hindered by the holiday, when freight transport is reduced a week before Idul Fitri," Central Statistics Agency (BPS) head Suhariyanto told reporters during a monthly trade press conference on Monday.
The trade figures still show a monthly surplus of $1.63 billion, or 181.03 percent MoM growth, a rise of 46.84 percent year on year.Read also: Indonesia's trade surplus up by 23.6 percent in May
The top three exports that increased MoM in terms of value were wood pulp, aluminum and salt and minerals, while the bottom three exports were vegetable and animal oils and fats dominated by palm oil, fuel minerals dominated by coal, and rubber and rubber products.
The top three imports that increased MoM in terms of value were sea vessels and floating equipment, vegetables dominated by garlic, and jewelry, while the bottom three imports were electronics and electrical equipment, mechanical tools and equipment, and iron and steel. (bbn)