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Jakarta, June 11, 2026 — Indonesia’s state-owned logistics operator, KAI Logistik, has reported a sharp rise in container train freight, underscoring the growing role of rail transport in easing road congestion and supporting industrial supply chains.
Between January and May 2026, the company moved 1.19 million tons of goods via container trains, a volume equivalent to nearly 60,000 truck trips.
Rail Freight Momentum
The company’s latest figures highlight a steady climb in freight activity. In May alone, KAI Logistik transported 267,390 tons of containerized cargo, marking the highest monthly performance this year and a 20 percent increase compared to January.
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Overall freight volume in May reached 1.65 million tons, up 10 percent month-on-month, reflecting strong demand from industrial clients.
Strategic Expansion
Chief Executive Officer Yuskal Setiawan described container trains as the firm’s flagship service, noting that volumes grew 8 percent in 2025 compared to 2024.
To meet rising demand, KAI Logistik added two new container train sets in the second quarter of 2026, boosting capacity and positioning rail freight as a more reliable alternative to road transport.
Setiawan emphasized that the company’s strategy is not only about moving more goods but also about building a sustainable logistics ecosystem.
By shifting freight from trucks to trains, KAI Logistik aims to reduce traffic congestion, lower emissions, and cut infrastructure maintenance costs.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Rail freight offers significant efficiency gains for industries, consolidating large volumes at lower costs compared to trucking.
The shift also supports Indonesia’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and improving logistics competitiveness.
Industrial sectors are increasingly adopting rail transport for long-haul distribution, citing reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Looking ahead, KAI Logistik plans to strengthen service quality and expand rail freight capacity further in 2026.
The company’s long-term vision is to anchor Indonesia’s logistics system on sustainable, rail-based solutions that enhance industrial competitiveness while easing the burden on the nation’s roads.
With container trains already removing tens of thousands of trucks from highways, KAI Logistik’s expansion signals a decisive step toward modernizing Indonesia’s freight landscape.
