Purbaya Inspects Thousands of Accumulated Containers at Priok, Identifies Root Causes

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed the causes behind the accumulation of thousands of containers at Tanjung Priok Port. He shared these findings after conducting a direct inspection of the Tanjung Priok Container Terminal on Saturday (6/6/2026).

Purbaya explained that one of the primary causes is a recent surge in the volume of incoming imported goods. Consequently, he noted, the processing and release of goods have slowed down, leading to container congestion within the port area.

In addition to the import surge, Purbaya discovered that some goods have completed all administrative processes but have not been collected by their owners. He stated that some importers are leaving goods at the port for extended periods.

He suspects that several businesses are intentionally leaving goods at the port because storage fees are perceived to be cheaper than renting warehouses outside the port area.

Purbaya emphasised that such practices cannot be permitted as they have the potential to hinder the smooth operation of loading, unloading, and national logistics distribution. Therefore, he has requested the Directorate General of Customs and Excise to review new regulations regarding the time limits for goods storage at the port. The government is also considering imposing sanctions on goods that remain stagnant for too long.

“We will assess how many days are considered reasonable and how many are not. For those that are unreasonable, special measures will be implemented to ensure port activities are not obstructed,” he said.

During the inspection alongside Customs officials, Purbaya observed various imported commodities, ranging from industrial raw materials to consumer goods such as blenders, mattresses, rubber, and leather.

Previously, Purbaya revealed that the number of accumulated containers had reached approximately 3,200 units. While that figure has begun to decrease to around 2,500 units, it remains significantly higher than the normal condition, which typically fluctuates around 500 units.

“We must prepare; goods must not be allowed to pile up like this. We need to maintain levels at a normal state,” Purbaya concluded.