Indonesia's Trade Surplus Soars in August Despite Falling Exports

Indonesia's trade surplus in August was $3.12 billion, double the forecast and up sharply from July.

Imports fell 14.77% in August, deeper than forecast, mainly due to lower crude oil imports.

Exports dropped 21.21% in August compared to a year earlier, due to lower prices for key commodities like coal and palm oil.

Economists say imports are still expected to rise rest of year due to higher oil prices and manufacturing activity.

Indonesia's policymakers must remain cautious about currency volatility given rising US yields and expectations of a current account deficit.