Indonesian Palm Biomass Exceeds 5 Million Tons Annually in Japan
Indonesian palm kernel shell exports have crossed the 5-million-ton annual threshold on the Japanese market, as the sector seeks to diversify with empty fruit bunch pellets.
| Sectors | Biomass Energy |
|---|---|
| Themes | Industry & Execution, Corporate Strategy |
| Companies | PT Sucofindo |
| Countries | Japan, Indonesia |
Indonesia is consolidating its position on the Japanese biomass market. Exports of Palm Kernel Shell (PKS) now exceed 5 million tons annually, according to the Indonesian Palm Kernel Shell Entrepreneurs Association (APCASI). The sector is simultaneously developing Empty Fruit Bunch (EFB) pellets as a new alternative energy source.
Strengthened presence at International Biomass Expo 2026
APCASI participated in the International Biomass Expo 2026, held from March 17 to 19 at Tokyo Big Sight. The participation was supported by BPDP — Indonesia's palm oil plantation fund management agency — and the Directorate General of National Export Development under the Ministry of Trade, in collaboration with ITPC Osaka and the Trade Attaché of the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo. The event was inaugurated by Indonesian Ambassador to Japan Nurmala Kartini Pandjaitan Sjahrir.
On the sidelines of the exhibition, APCASI hosted a business forum titled "The Amazing Indonesia Palm Biomass," bringing together key stakeholders from both countries. APCASI Chairman Dikki Akhmar stated that the showcase featured PKS and EFB pellets. "PKS has maintained a stable market in Japan over the past three years. Moving forward, we aim to accelerate EFB pellet development as a promising alternative energy source," he said.
A national potential estimated at 232 million metric tons annually
Indonesia's palm biomass potential is estimated at 232 million metric tons annually, equivalent to up to 38,760 MW of power generation capacity, according to data presented at the exposition. Deputy Ambassador Maria Renata Hutagalung noted that this trade contributes positively to bilateral relations between the two countries. "The Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo will continue to support market access and promotion for Indonesian businesses," she stated.
BPDP Director Lupi Hartono reaffirmed the agency's commitment to promotion and research aimed at enhancing the value of palm-derived products, including biomass. PT Sucofindo President Director Sandry Pasambuna highlighted the company's cooperation with Japan Quality Assurance to strengthen the credibility of Indonesian biomass certification.
A sector positioned as competitive on international markets
Director General of National Export Development Fajarini Puntodewi described palm biomass as a strategic export commodity with strong potential for foreign exchange earnings. Promotional efforts are coordinated through several Indonesian government bodies. Rising global demand for renewable energy, she noted, represents a favorable driver for Indonesia's positioning in this market.
