10 Types of Indonesian Plantation Export Commodities That Are Renowned Worldwide

Indonesia, an archipelagic nation rich in natural resources, is truly a paradise for agricultural commodities. Its fertile soil and tropical climate create perfect conditions for producing high-quality products that are renowned worldwide.

From the alluring aroma of coffee to the ever-popular palm oil, Indonesia’s agricultural export commodities not only bring in significant foreign exchange but also enhance the country’s reputation on the global stage. Curious about the key players? Let’s explore 10 types of Indonesian plantation export commodities that wow the world!

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1. Palm Oil

Palm oil is the “king” of Indonesia’s export commodities. The country is the world’s largest producer of palm oil, supplying more than 50% of global demand. In 2021 alone, production reached 51.3 million tons, exported to countries like China, India, and the European Union. Indonesian palm oil isn’t only used in cooking oil but also in cosmetics, soap, and even biodiesel.

Its superiority lies in its high productivity—producing seven times more oil per hectare than rapeseed. Sumatra and Kalimantan are the main plantation hubs, consistently producing high-demand products. With growing downstream development, palm oil’s export value continues to rise, making it an irreplaceable pillar of the economy.

2. Rubber

Indonesia ranks as the second-largest natural rubber producer in the world after Thailand. With plantation areas covering 3.7 million hectares, the country produced about 3.1 million tons of rubber in 2021. Its main export destinations include the United States, Japan, and China, where rubber is used in car tires, hoses, and electrical cables.

The tropical climate and fertile soil in Aceh, South Sumatra, and West Kalimantan contribute to the high quality of Indonesia’s TSR (Technically Specified Rubber). With stable global demand and sustainable cultivation innovations, rubber remains a shining star in the international market.

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3. Coffee

Who can resist the aroma of Indonesian coffee? As the fourth-largest coffee producer globally, Indonesia exported 276 thousand tons in 2023. Arabica and Robusta beans from Sumatra, Java, and Sulawesi are favorites in the U.S., Japan, and Europe. Let’s not forget civet coffee—the world’s most expensive—adding a unique appeal.

Indonesian coffee is known for its distinct flavor, shaped by volcanic soil and traditional processing methods. From small cafes to Starbucks, our coffee fills cups around the world—proof of Indonesia’s special magic in the global coffee industry.

4. Cocoa

That delicious chocolate in your hand may have come from Indonesian cocoa! As the world’s third-largest cocoa producer, Indonesia produced 740 thousand tons of cocoa beans in 2020. These are exported to Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, and the U.S. as raw material for chocolate bars, cocoa powder, and cocoa paste.

Sulawesi and Sumatra are the heart of Indonesian cocoa production, producing globally recognized quality. With growing demand, especially for processed products, cocoa remains a significant foreign exchange contributor. Imagine—every bite of chocolate might have a trace of Indonesia in it!

5. Tea

Indonesian tea brings freshness to 58 countries. As the seventh-largest tea producer in the world, Indonesia exports green and black tea to Malaysia, Japan, and Russia. In 2021, tea exports reached hundreds of thousands of tons, offering distinctive flavors from Java and West Sumatra plantations.

Cultivation in highlands gives Indonesian tea its unique character. Despite competition from ready-to-drink tea imports, traditional Indonesian tea remains a favorite, delivering the essence of the archipelago to the world’s teacups.

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6. Pepper

Nicknamed the “King of Spice,” Indonesian pepper holds 18.7% of the global market. White Muntok pepper from Bangka Belitung and black pepper are major exports to Vietnam, the U.S., and the Netherlands. In 2023 alone, black pepper exports reached 9 thousand tons.

Since colonial times, Indonesian pepper has been famous for its strong aroma and quality. From Asian to European cuisine, our pepper is the must-have seasoning that keeps the world enchanted.

7. Cloves

Indonesian cloves are the fragrant “gold of spices.” With production rising from 82 thousand tons in 2009 to 83 thousand tons in 2010, cloves are exported to India, Vietnam, and Saudi Arabia. Used in clove cigarettes, they also play a role in food and pharmaceutical industries.

North Sulawesi and Maluku are top producers of high-quality cloves. Their signature aroma and premium quality keep Indonesian cloves in demand, spreading our scent across global markets.

8. Vanilla

Indonesia’s vanilla ranks among the best globally, making it the third-largest exporter after Madagascar and France. Between 2015–2019, vanilla exports soared, with the U.S. and Europe as major buyers. Its sweet flavor is a key ingredient in the food industry.

Grown in Bali, Java, and Nusa Tenggara, Indonesian vanilla boasts a strong aroma thanks to natural drying methods. From cakes to perfumes, our vanilla adds a sweet touch across the globe.

9. Coconut

Indonesia’s coconuts are not only abundant but also the fourth-largest contributor to foreign exchange. In 2018, coconut and its derivatives (like copra and coconut milk) reached 1.4 million tons in exports. Major markets include the U.S. and China.

From soap to packaged drinks, coconuts from Maluku and North Sulawesi carry high economic value. This treasure proves how versatile the “tree of life” is for Indonesia and the world.

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10. Tobacco

Indonesian tobacco has loyal fans in global markets. In 2017, tobacco exports reached 287 thousand tons, with Europe and America as main destinations. North Sumatra and Central Java produce top-quality tobacco for cigarettes and cigars.

Although production dipped to 230 thousand tons in 2018, global demand remained high. Our tobacco isn’t just a commodity—it’s a cultural art form appreciated worldwide.