04.05.202604:00:00UTC+00Indonesia’s Import Growth Cools Sharply to 1.51% YoY in March 2026

Indonesia’s import growth slowed markedly in March 2026, signaling a sharp cooling in external demand momentum after a strong start to the year. Year-over-year import growth eased to 1.51% in March, down from 10.85% in February 2026, according to data updated on 4 May 2026.

The figures are based on year-over-year comparisons, with the current reading measuring the change in March 2026 imports against March 2025, and the previous figure reflecting February 2026 imports versus February 2025. The steep deceleration suggests that the surge in imports seen earlier in the year did not persist into March, potentially pointing to softer demand for foreign goods, changes in inventory cycles, or early signs of a broader economic moderation.

While imports remain in positive territory on an annual basis, the loss of momentum could have mixed implications for Indonesia’s outlook. On one hand, weaker import growth may relieve some pressure on the trade balance; on the other, it may also hint at more cautious business investment and consumer spending, developments that market participants will likely monitor closely in the coming months.