Indonesia Always Runs a Trade Deficit with Sweden

Indonesia's trade balance with Sweden from 2012 to 2017 consistently showed a deficit, although the amount steadily decreased. In 2012, Indonesia's trade deficit with Sweden reached US$1.13 billion. This deficit was due to Indonesia's exports to Sweden totaling only US$166.28 million, while imports reached US$1.3 billion.

In 2016, Indonesia's exports to Sweden amounted to US$144.69 million, while imports reached US$526.18 million. Therefore, Indonesia again recorded a trade deficit with Sweden of US$381.49 million. Similarly, in January-February 2017, Indonesia's trade balance also recorded a deficit of US$78.07 million.

The visit of His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden to Indonesia should be utilized as an opportunity to enhance trade between the two countries. This is particularly important for increasing Indonesia's export market share in Sweden, given Indonesia's persistent trade deficit with Sweden.