Import issues in Surabaya remain a crucial topic for businesses, as the city serves as one of Indonesia’s key import hubs, supporting trade across the eastern region. Despite rapid economic growth, importers must navigate several challenges to ensure smooth operations.
This article explores Surabaya’s import growth, the main factors driving it, and the common obstacles businesses face when bringing goods through its ports.
2024 import growth in Surabaya
East Java, where Surabaya is the capital, saw a significant increase in import value in 2024, reaching USD 2.7 billion, or an almost 4.6% rise compared to the previous year. China was the top import partner, with goods valued at USD 860 million, followed by Hong Kong and Brazil.
The largest share of imported goods came from non-oil and gas products, totaling USD 2.3 billion, representing a 17.7% increase compared to December 2023. In contrast, oil and gas imports amounted to USD 475.6 million, showing a 32% decline from the same period.
Read more: East Java’s top business sectors: Discovering potential
Why businesses choose Surabaya as a prime import destination
Here’s why many businesses select Surabaya as their import gateway:
Strong Port and Transport Access
The Port of Tanjung Perak handles high cargo volumes and is well connected to toll roads, rail lines, and Juanda International Airport, making shipping faster and more efficient.
Lower Congestion Than Jakarta
Surabaya’s port experiences fewer delays compared to Jakarta, helping importers avoid bottlenecks and maintain smooth supply chains.
Trusted Logistics and Customs Services
The city offers a wide range of reliable freight forwarders, customs agents, and logistics providers. Many offer fixed pricing and delivery guarantees, reducing the risk of extra costs or shipment problems.
Access to Eastern Indonesia
Surabaya serves as a gateway to the country’s eastern regions. Items can be quickly distributed to nearby provinces, making it ideal for companies that want to expand their reach beyond Java.
These advantages can significantly impact your import-export business by offering:
- Faster shipments with fewer delays
- Lower logistics costs due to better port efficiency
- Stronger regional access for expanding markets
- Easier scaling of import operations with reliable partners
Read more: Indonesia’s top import-export business ideas
Challenges of importing into Surabaya: 5 common import issues
While Surabaya is a strategic location for trade, businesses must be prepared to face several import issues in Surabaya. Here’s the breakdown to avoid delays and additional costs:
1. Port Congestion
One of the most common import issues in Surabaya is congestion at Tanjung Perak Port. With high container traffic and limited space, shipments can face significant delays. In 2024, 26.000 containers were reported stalled due to documentation and scheduling problems, causing delays and added costs for importers.
2. Changing Import Regulations
New policies, such as the Ministry of Trade Regulation No. 8/2024, can be challenging to follow, especially for businesses without dedicated compliance teams.
3. Customs Clearance Delays
Slow custom clearance can impact delivery times and increase costs.
4. Low-Quality Service Providers
Hiring unqualified brokers or agents is a serious risk. Mistakes in paperwork or customs declarations can lead to shipment delays, fines, or legal trouble.
5. Unpredictable Import Costs
Another import issues in Surabaya is financial impact of exchange rate fluctuations, storage fees, and demurrage. Without careful cost planning, profit margins can be severely affected.
Read more: Navigating the landscape of Indonesian imports
How InCorp can help navigate import issues in Surabaya
Managing import issues in Surabaya can be challenging, but the process becomes more efficient and stress-free with the right partner. InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company) provides reliable import solutions to help businesses stay compliant, avoid delays, and streamline operations:
- Import Permit: We manage the process, from identifying the appropriate license and preparing documents to ensuring full compliance with Indonesian import regulations.
- Importer of Record (IOR): We handle customs clearance, taxes, and duties, and ensure timely and hassle-free delivery of your goods.
Ready to import through Surabaya? Contact us today, and let InCorp confidently guide you through every stage of the import process.
Frequently Ask Questions
What is an import permit in Indonesia?
It’s an authorization linked to your Business Identification Number (NIB) from the OSS system, required to import goods legally.
Do I need an import permit for all goods?
Yes, for all imports. Restricted items like food, electronics, or chemicals also need additional licenses from relevant ministries.
What documents are needed to apply?
NIB, HS Codes, business licenses, tax ID, and product compliance certificates for restricted goods.
What are the risks of importing without a permit?
Your shipment may be delayed, seized, fined, or rejected by customs.
Get in touch with us.
What you'll get
A prompt response to your inquiry
Knowledge for doing business from local experts
Ongoing support for your business
Disclaimer
The information is provided by PT. Cekindo Business International (“InCorp Indonesia/ we”) for general purpose only and we make no representations or warranties of any kind.
We do not act as an authorized government or non-government provider for official documents and services, which is issued by the Government of the Republic of Indonesia or its appointed officials. We do not promote any official government document or services of the Government of the Republic of Indonesia, including but not limited to, business identifiers, health and welfare assistance programs and benefits, unclaimed tax rebate, electronic travel visa and authorization, passports in this website.
Verified by
Hotdo Nauli
Senior Legal & Delivery Manager at InCorp Indonesia
Hotdo heads the Legal and Delivery team at InCorp Indonesia, managing Product Registration, Legal Advisory, and Business Licensing. With over 8 years of experience, she focuses on compliance and integrity, ensuring all client operations align with Indonesian laws and regulatory standards, including contract reviews and sector-specific licenses. She is also a licensed advocate and a member of the Indonesian Advocates Association (PERADI).
