IDIndonesia's foreign trade balance remained in surplus for the first five months of 2026 despite recording a trade deficit in May. Trade Minister Budi Santoso stated that the cumulative trade surplus amounted to US$4.03 billion, driven primarily by a US$16.31 billion surplus in non-oil and gas trade. This offset a US$12.28 billion deficit in the oil and gas sector, with May's deficit largely attributed to a US$3.76 billion shortfall in oil and gas exports. Non-oil and gas trade saw significant contributions from mineral fuels, animal or vegetable fats and oils, and iron and steel. Key trading partners included the United States, India, and the Philippines.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual data and quotes from the Trade Minister without overtly favoring any political ideology. It provides balanced information on both the overall trade surplus and the specific deficits within the oil and gas sector, without emphasizing one perspective over another. The tone
