Indonesia's Largest Workforce Segment is Farming, Reaching 42.50 Million

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Statistics Indonesia (BPS) recorded an increase in the number of people working in Indonesia in the latest data for February 2026. The total reached 147.67 million people, an addition of 1.89 million from the February 2025 figure.

The majority of the working population is in the agriculture sector, amounting to 28.78% of the total 147.67 million working people, or equivalent to 42.50 million. This is followed by those working in the wholesale and retail trade sector at 17.95%, or 26.51 million, and industry at 13.57%, equivalent to 20.04 million.

The number of people working in the agriculture sector has risen compared to last year, which was 28.54% of the total 145.77 million working population. Meanwhile, the wholesale and retail trade sector declined, as in February 2025 it was 19.26% of 145.77 million. Industry saw a slight increase, as last year it was 13.45% of 145.77 million.

“The three business fields that absorb the most jobs are agriculture, wholesale and retail trade, and industry,” said Amalia during a press conference at the BPS Head Office in Jakarta on Tuesday (5/5/2026).

Below them, the three largest business sectors absorbing labour in Indonesia include accommodation and food and beverage at 7.90%, up from 7.87% in February 2025. Construction also rose to 6.07% from the previous 5.97%.

The number of people working in the education sector is equivalent to 5% of the total working population in February 2026, a slight decrease from last year at 5.04% of the total 145.77 million working population. Government administration also increased, with the latest share at 3.66% from 3.65% last year.

As for employment status, in February 2026, the largest group consists of labourers, employees, or civil servants, equivalent to 36.99% of the total working population of 147.67 million. Then, those working independently at 20.57%, and those working with non-permanent labourers at 15.97%.

“In February 2026, out of 147.67 million working people, 36.99% are labourers/employees/civil servants. Compared to February 2025, this increased by 555,000 people, in line with the rise in the working population as formal labourers, employees, or civil servants,” she emphasised.