Indonesia’s state railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is proposing the import of used Japanese commuter train sets to replace ageing fleets, though the plan still requires formal regulatory approval and must align with national industrial policies. Some electric commuter train fleets currently operated by KAI have been in service for over 40 years, creating an urgent need for upgrades that outpaces the domestic production capacity of state-owned manufacturer PT INKA.
Transport Ministry Review and Regulatory Hurdles
Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi stated that his ministry has not yet received an official proposal from KAI regarding the used train imports. Consequently, the ministry has not conducted an operational assessment or held formal discussions on the procurement. Dudy noted that any fleet expansion must comply with the policy direction of President Prabowo Subianto, which prioritizes domestic manufacturing wherever feasible.
Trade Ministry Requirements and Import Rules
Regulations governing the import of used rolling stock fall under the jurisdiction of the Trade Ministry rather than the Transportation Ministry. Trade Minister Budi Santoso confirmed that used rolling stock is subject to regulated import requirements and requires an explicit recommendation from the relevant technical ministry before approval can proceed. Trade Ministry officials previously met with KAI representatives to outline these specific regulatory requirements.
Fleet Replacement Pressures and Manufacturing Capacity
KAI President Director Bobby Rasyidin previously pointed to limited production capacity at PT INKA as the primary driver behind considering used Japanese train sets as a temporary bridge measure. With some KRL fleets operating for more than 40 years, KAI faces mounting pressure to secure rolling stock replacements while following strict domestic manufacturing mandates.
KAI considers imported trains due to limited domestic capacity
Why is KAI considering imported trains?
KAI faces limited production capacity at domestic manufacturer PT INKA while dealing with electric commuter train fleets that have operated for more than 40 years.
Which government bodies must approve the plan?
The proposal requires operational review by the Transportation Ministry, an explicit recommendation from the technical ministry, and formal import approval from the Trade Ministry.
What is the current status of the proposal?
The procurement remains at an early stage because KAI has not yet formally submitted its proposal to the Transportation Ministry for operational assessment.