Indonesia food, beverage imports post double-digit growth

Imports of beverages and food in Indonesia in 2012 are expected to grow by 10% on last year, according to the Indonesian Food and Beverage Association.

Adhi S Lukman, the Association’s chair said that imports will hit approximately $6.5 billion by the end of the year.

“By September, the importation of the food and beverage has reached $4.3 billion. By the year end the import is predicted to reach $6.5 billion,” said Lukman.

Recently, Indonesia has imported more food and beverage products from neighbouring South East Asian countries, partly explains the rise.

Lukman said that food and beverage exports from Indonesia to other South East Asian economies had also registered healthy growth.

“By the year end the Association expects the exports of foods and beverages from Indonesia could reach $4.9 billion, 20% higher from that of at last year,” he said.