Indonesia economic performance Q2 2024

Kenny
Aug 22, 2024

The second quarter of 2024 presents a mixed yet cautiously optimistic picture for Indonesia’s economy. While some sectors show resilience and growth, others face challenges that signal potential headwinds. In this article on Indonesia economic performance, Cimigo analyses key economic indicators to provide a thorough understanding of where Indonesia’s economy stands and where it might be headed.

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Manufacturing sector: challenges amid growth

The manufacturing sector in Indonesia has experienced a downturn in recent months. The Manufacturing PMI, a critical indicator of the sector’s health, has consistently declined from 52.5 in June 2023 to 50.7 by June 2024, marking a 3.4% year-on-year fall​. This suggests that manufacturing is facing challenges, particularly in terms of new orders and general sentiment. Nevertheless, the broader industrial production grew by 3.95% in the same period, indicating that while manufacturers are cautious, actual output remains strong.

Indonesia manufacturing managers purchase index Q2 2024

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This juxtaposition suggests that while sentiment may be down, the capacity for production remains intact, providing some buffer against further economic downturns. Businesses in this sector should remain vigilant, especially regarding supply chain issues and volatile demand, which could affect margins.

Business outlook: cautiously optimistic

Despite the manufacturing slowdown, the overall business outlook in Indonesia is cautiously optimistic. The growth in exports (1.9%) and imports (1.8%) during this period points to a balanced trade environment​. These figures suggest that while businesses are proceeding with caution, the economic environment remains conducive to growth.

Cimigo projects that this balanced approach, with the GDP growth in Q2 2024 of 5.05%, will sustain GDP growth at a modest 5.1% throughout 2024. However, companies should prepare for potential challenges, including narrowing margins and external economic pressures.

Indonesia economic performance Q2 2024

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Consumer confidence: waning but resilient

Consumer confidence in Indonesia has seen a decline, dropping 3% compared with June of the previous year​. This downward trend is particularly pronounced among older generations, while younger cohorts (Gen Z and Gen Y) remain relatively more optimistic about the future. The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) stood at 123.3 in June 2024, down from 121.7 in the previous year, signalling a more cautious outlook among consumers.

Indonesia consumer confidence index Q2 2024

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This decline in confidence correlates with a challenging job market, where 74% of respondents reported difficulty finding employment. This could potentially affect consumer spending patterns, with a shift towards more value-driven purchases.

Retail sales: a glimmer of hope

Despite the challenges in manufacturing and consumer sentiment, retail sales have shown a modest improvement. The real retail sales index recorded a 4.4% year-on-year increase as of June 2024, primarily driven by essential goods sectors such as food, beverages, tobacco, and motor vehicle parts​. These sectors have demonstrated resilience, suggesting that consumer spending is recovering, albeit unevenly.

Indonesia retail sales index Q2 2024

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However, the uneven recovery emphasizes the importance of focusing on value-driven products, especially in sectors that cater to more cautious consumers. Businesses in these industries should make the most of the steady demand while remaining alert to shifts in consumer priorities.

Press on, but proceed with caution

Indonesia economic performance in Q2 2024 is characterised by a complex blend of resilience and caution. While the manufacturing sector faces headwinds, other areas like retail sales and industrial production show signs of strength. Consumer confidence is in slight decline, but younger generations remain hopeful, providing a potential buffer against further economic slowdowns.

As Indonesia navigates these challenges, businesses must remain adaptable, focusing on sectors that show growth potential while preparing for possible shifts in the economic landscape. With cautious optimism, Indonesia is poised to maintain steady, if modest, economic growth through 2024.

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