Pertamina Targets Asian Shipping Market Amid Global Volatility
Main Takeaways
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JAKARTA, Investortrust.id – As part of its response to global uncertainties, PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS), the marine logistics subholding of Indonesian state energy giant PT Pertamina (Persero), is stepping up efforts to modernize its fleet and capture a larger share of Asia’s growing maritime transport market.
The strategy was laid out by I Ketut Laba, President Director of PT Pertamina Trans Kontinental (PTK), a subsidiary under PIS, during a shipping market panel discussion held in Jakarta on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
Laba noted that while Indonesia’s economy continues to expand by roughly 5% annually, domestic oil demand is projected to rise by 4.5%, and oil shipments by 5%. However, the regional shipping capacity is struggling to keep pace, with the number of vessels in Asia expected to grow by only 2.5% per year—mirroring the growth rate of Indonesia-flagged vessels.
“The availability and reliability of vessels remain key challenges we must address to meet growing market demand,” said Laba.
Modernization Push to Seize Regional Opportunity
PIS is focusing on two main strategies: strengthening its fleet capabilities and reducing the average age of its ships. These efforts are aimed not only at meeting rising domestic transport needs but also at positioning the company competitively in international markets. Laba emphasized that fleet modernization would enhance operational reliability and help meet regulatory standards in global shipping.
As of 2025, PIS manages a fleet of more than 700 vessels, including 106 owned ships manned by over 10,000 seafarers. PTK contributes 402 vessels to the total fleet.
In 2024, the company added 11 new tankers to its fleet, including four very large gas carriers (VLGCs). With this expansion, PIS now operates seven VLGCs with an average vessel age of just 3.42 years. The company also continues to invest in advanced technology and environmentally friendly solutions.
“Beyond maintenance, we’re upgrading our fleet to meet both domestic needs and maximize international shipping potential,” Laba said.
Industry Faces Aging Fleet Challenge
Angad Banga, Chief Operating Officer of Caravel Group and Chairman of The Hong Kong Shipowners Association Ltd, highlighted aging ships as a broader concern in the shipping industry. He stressed that vessel renewal is essential for meeting the needs of international trade, domestic logistics, and specific fuel transportation requirements.
The outlook for the industry remains optimistic. Anindya Bakrie, Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), said Indonesia is actively boosting trade with key partners such as China, the United States, the European Union, and BRICS nations.
“With trade volumes rising, the shipping industry is poised for a bright future. That will demand a significant increase in available vessel capacity,” Bakrie said.