East Kalimantan’s exports to the United States in 2024 were largely dominated by palm oil derivatives and plywood products. According to Heni Purwaningsih, Head of the East Kalimantan Office for Industry, Trade, Cooperatives, and SMEs (Disperindagkop UKM), these sectors contributed a total export value of USD 23.05 million. Based on Certificate of Origin (SKA) data, five main commodities led exports, with processed palm oil products—such as RBD Palm Oil, Stearin, Olein, and Kernel Oil—reaching 19,349.54 tons and earning USD 13.89 million. Meanwhile, forestry-based exports, especially Meranti plywood, totaled 15,754 cubic meters valued at over USD 9.16 million.
Entering 2025, East Kalimantan’s trade activity with the U.S. remains strong. From January to March alone, export values reached USD 8.32 million. While palm oil products, particularly RBD Palm Stearin, continued to play a key role with 2,149.83 tons exported (worth USD 2.66 million), Meranti plywood saw a slight dip in volume compared to the previous year, recording 8,664.05 cubic meters valued at USD 5.58 million. Interestingly, a new commodity—drilling machine spare parts—entered the export list with 162 kg shipped, valued at USD 6,520. Heni added that the provincial government is aligning with the national initiative by forming a task force to address the impact of emerging trade policy changes.
