PROKAL.CO, BALIKPAPAN – Following East Kalimantan (Kaltim), the development of Bonded Logistics Centers (PLB) is said to shift towards North Kalimantan (Kaltara). In Indonesia's youngest province, the flow potential of commodities from fisheries and marine sectors is reported to be very high.

This was revealed by the Chairperson of the Indonesian Bonded Logistics Centers Association (PPLBI) Ety Puspitasari. She expressed optimism about the government's target in realizing Asia-Pacific level logistics mega-hubs. She noted that PLB development continues rapidly, with increasing numbers of import-export businesses relocating their logistics warehouses from overseas to domestic locations.

"And it's not just one company. Many have already moved their warehouses. This is a tangible response to the growth of PLBs, now available at 28 locations across Indonesia," said Ety last Thursday (11/3).

Most of the expansion to 28 PLBs occurred this year. By March, only 11 PLBs were operational, with 17 more added in the subsequent seven months. The government reportedly aims to have 50 operational PLBs by year's end.

This number is considered ideal for meeting import-export business needs. However, Ety emphasized that while no strict limits exist, provisions regarding quantity and zoning must still be observed.

PLBs have specific requirements, including minimum land area of 1 hectare and capable management systems. Commodities handled vary by regional strengths – in East Kalimantan, coal and oil & gas (oil and gas) still dominate, including both commodities and production equipment.

For example, PT Cipta Krida Bahari (CKB) Logistics' newly inaugurated PLB utilizes two-thirds of its 6,000-square-meter area to serve heavy equipment distributor Trakindo Utama, with additional potential expected soon.

Ety noted PLB development isn't limited to East Kalimantan. Several developers are eyeing North Kalimantan's marine and fishery commodities – key natural products from Indonesia's youngest province. While no companies have committed yet, she hopes PLB investments will materialize soon, promising easier and cheaper Borneo trade activities. "Quantity should align with actual needs. Having hundreds might be excessive," she cautioned but expressed confidence: "Given current positive trends, implementation won't take long."

Ety further revealed that the warehouse relocation trend has drawn reactions from countries like Singapore, previously preferred logistics hub locations, which are now easing regulations for Indonesian companies.

Domestically, PLB growth is expected to enhance Indonesia's – particularly East Kalimantan's – attractiveness for business investment.

(aji/man/k15)