Amidst the noticeable downturn in automotive sales, including both four-wheeled vehicles and two-wheeled motorcycles, Indonesia's motorcycle industry has also witnessed a significant decline in sales figures. According to data from the Indonesian Motorcycle Industry Association (AISI), domestic motorcycle sales in the initial two months of this year amounted to 1,151,343 units, compared to 1,190,918 units in the same period last year, marking a reduction of 39,575 units.
Industry experts attribute this decline in motorcycle sales to a variety of factors, ranging from increases in essential commodity prices to weather conditions. Octavianus Dwi Putro, Marketing Director of PT Astra Honda Motor (AHM), highlighted how factors like high rainfall delaying harvests and natural disasters in certain regions have impacted consumer purchasing power and overall economic activities.
"While commodity prices remain relatively high without significant increases, their influence cannot be discounted. The island of Java, in particular, has been greatly affected due to high rainfall, leading to delayed harvests. Additionally, some areas have been hit by natural disasters, further affecting us," explained Octavianus Dwi Putro.
However, despite the challenges faced in the early months of the year, industry leaders remain optimistic about a potential rebound in March sales. One key driver anticipated to boost sales is the approaching Eid al-Fitr holiday, during which many individuals require vehicles for mobility purposes.
"Looking at the AISI data, although there hasn't been a significant decline, we aim to maintain healthy stock levels. As we approach Eid al-Fitr, we anticipate a considerable improvement in distribution, ensuring sufficient stock availability in the market," Octavianus added.
Echoing similar sentiments, AHM's Executive Vice President Director, Thomas Wijaya, pointed out various factors contributing to the decline in motorcycle sales, including political uncertainties related to elections and economic conditions affected by weather-related incidents.
"This situation is influenced by many factors, including political conditions related to elections and economic conditions in various regions due to weather and disasters that occurred earlier in the year," stated Thomas.
Earlier remarks from Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati emphasized the significant contraction in both car and motorcycle sales by the end of February 2024. Despite this, she expressed confidence in the overall strength of consumer consumption.
"Sales of durable goods such as cars and motorcycles have faced pressure, with eight consecutive months of contraction in car sales and six consecutive months of contraction in motorcycle sales. However, the consumer index remains robust, a factor that we need to maintain," Sri Mulyani remarked during a press conference on the national budget.
As the motorcycle industry navigates through these challenges, stakeholders remain hopeful that upcoming economic factors, including the Eid al-Fitr holiday, could provide a much-needed boost to sales figures, contributing to a potential recovery in the market.