Tens of thousands of containers, predominantly containing goods from China, have accumulated at the Tanjung Priok port, according to local media reports. While the volume of cargo has drawn significant attention, port operator Pelindo asserts that terminal operations continue to function normally.
- Cargo Volume: Tens of thousands of containers are currently piled at the port.
- Origin: The majority of the accumulated goods originate from China.
- BYD Shipments: Contrary to some reports, the containers associated with BYD do not contain vehicles.
- Operational Status: Pelindo maintains that port activities remain unaffected by the buildup.
What is inside the BYD containers?
Reports of container piles at Tanjung Priok sparked speculation regarding the influx of electric vehicles (EVs). However, according to reports from local media, the containers associated with Chinese automaker BYD do not contain cars. While the specific contents were not detailed, the clarification separates the logistical buildup from the direct import of finished vehicles.
The automotive sector has been closely monitoring the situation, with Wuling also issuing a response regarding the container accumulation at the port, according to local reporting.
How is Pelindo managing the cargo volume?
The scale of the buildup is substantial, with CNBC Indonesia reporting that tens of thousands of containers, mostly from China, have piled up. Despite these figures, the port operator has denied any systemic failure in logistics.
Pelindo claims that operations remain normal.
The operator’s stance suggests that while the volume of cargo is high, the throughput and handling processes have not reached a point of operational paralysis.
Is the backlog affecting other ports?
The congestion appears concentrated at Tanjung Priok. According to statements from Bea Cukai (Customs), there are no “longstay” containers—cargo that remains in the port beyond the permitted free time—at the Tanjung Perak port. This indicates that the current logistical pressure is localized rather than a nationwide port crisis.
