Indonesia Green Ports Initiative

Indonesia is an archipelagic nation with over 17,000 islands. The country’s nearly 350 ports consequently play a crucial role in this Southeast Asian economy. Indonesia has embraced the concept of a “green port” to enhance both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. However, the country’s implementation of green port initiatives is still new and requires comprehensive support from various stakeholders, including the government, port industries, local communities—and potentially U.S. firms with expertise in port greening.

This challenge presents a tremendous opportunity for U.S. maritime companies seeking to promote sustainable practices such as reducing emissions, optimizing energy use, and adopting eco-friendly technologies and practices in port operations. By fostering partnerships and integrating environmental considerations into port development strategies, Indonesia aims to pave the way for greener and more resilient port infrastructure that aligns with global sustainability goals.

One of the primary challenges facing ports in Indonesia is the inadequacy of infrastructure coupled with high logistics costs. Substantial investments are required to integrate environmentally friendly and smart port technologies into port operations. This includes adopting electric vehicles for intra-port transportation, implementing energy management systems to optimize resource usage, and establishing efficient waste processing facilities.

The Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment (MARVES), the national government authority on port development, has set an ambitious goal to transform 149 of its 348 ports across the country into green and smart ports by 2024. Currently, several ports under Pelindo, Indonesia’s state-owned port operation company and the biggest port management entity in the country, have already implemented the MARVES Green Port concept, earning certifications for their efforts to minimize environmental impact. These ports include Jakarta International Container Terminal, North Kalimantan Kariangau Terminal, Koja Container Terminal, New Makassar Container Terminal, New Priok Container Terminal One (NPCT1), Pangkal Balam Port – Pangkal Pinang, Panjang Port – Bandar Lampung, Teluk Lamong Terminal, Semarang Container Terminal, Benoa Port, Tenau Port – Kupang, Ciwandan Port – Banten, and Kijing Terminal – Pontianak.

Implementing green port initiatives in Indonesia offers numerous benefits, including mitigating environmental impacts, enhancing operational efficiency, boosting global competitiveness, and strengthening Indonesia’s international standing as a maritime power. However, achieving these goals requires addressing challenges–inadequate infrastructure, limited stakeholder awareness, and funding constraints—through robust public-private sector collaboration.

The U.S. Commercial Service can assist you in identifying opportunities and local partners in the Indonesia Green Ports. Please contact Commercial Specialist Helda Sitorus at helda.sitorus@trade.gov.