JAKARTA — Bank Indonesia (BI) recorded Indonesia’s external debt at US$453.4 billion in the second quarter of 2026, equivalent to around Rp8,095 trillion.
The figure increased 4.4 percent year-on-year (yoy) compared with the same period last year.
The increase in external debt was mainly driven by the public sector. Meanwhile, private-sector external debt remained in contraction.
Government External Debt Reaches Rp3,862 Trillion
BI recorded external debt held by the government and central bank at US$216.3 billion in the second quarter of 2026, equivalent to around Rp3,862 trillion.
The figure grew 2.9 percent yoy, slowing from 3.8 percent growth in the first quarter of 2026.
The increase in government external debt was mainly influenced by inflows into government securities (SBN). BI said the government remains committed to making principal and interest payments on its debt obligations on time.
The funds are used, among other things, to support priority government spending and productive sectors.
Private External Debt Reaches Rp3,474 Trillion
Meanwhile, private-sector external debt stood at US$194.6 billion, or around Rp3,474 trillion.
Unlike government external debt, private-sector external debt remained in contraction, declining 0.6 percent yoy. However, the contraction was smaller than the 1.3 percent recorded in the first quarter of 2026.
Therefore, of Indonesia’s total external debt of Rp8,095 trillion, government and central bank debt accounted for around Rp3,862 trillion, while private-sector external debt stood at approximately Rp3,474 trillion.
BI: External Debt Management Remains Prudent
BI said Indonesia’s external debt continues to be managed in a prudent, credible, and sustainable manner.
In assessing external debt, the nominal amount is not the only indicator that matters. The debt structure, maturity, use of funds, and the country’s ability to meet its obligations are also important factors.
The 4.4 percent increase in external debt in the second quarter of 2026 should therefore be viewed in the context of Indonesia’s financing needs and external economic conditions.
Amid changes in global economic conditions, the government and BI need to ensure that the growth of external obligations remains in line with the economy’s ability to generate foreign exchange and meet its debt-servicing obligations.
