REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, CIKARANG -- Indonesia's automotive sector, which has recorded a steady growth, has the potential to make the automotive industry one of the main engines of export growth, stated Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi.

"The automotive industry and related industries will become the main engine of export growth. Therefore, we must address all obstacles that hinder our exports," he noted during the inauguration of the second unit of the motorcycle manufacturer, PT Kawasaki Motor, Indonesia's plant here on Tuesday.

Lufti asserted that the domestic automotive industry is now able to compete with automotive producers in other Southeast Asian nations.

Realizing that the manufacturing industry contributes significantly to the country's exports and economic growth and creates job opportunities for skilled workers, the Trade Ministry will continue to encourage the development of the manufacturing industry, he emphasized.

As per data, Indonesia's exports of motorcycles and spare parts contributed US$564.42 million to the country's foreign exchange coffers in 2013.

During the period between 2009 and 2013, the exports of motorcycles and spare parts showed an upward trend, and recorded a growth of 39.42 percent and 36.65 percent respectively.

The main markets for Indonesia's motorcycle and spare part exports were Singapore constituting 30.22 percent of the overall exports, followed by the Philippines contributing 15.50 percent, Thailand with 11.53 percent, Malaysia with 10.24 percent, and Vietnam with 8.10 percent.

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