The discussions focused on linking production centers with consumer markets, expanding access to domestic and international shipping services, and using port, warehousing and bonded logistics facilities to support businesses moving goods between the regions.
Growing interest in shipping routes
“We are seeing growing interest in shipping routes linking East Java and Eastern Indonesia. These conversations help us understand where demand is growing and how Lamongan can facilitate the movement of goods,” EJMT chief executive officer John Largo said.
ALFI/ILFA East Java chairman Sebastian Wibisono said businesses continue to weigh connectivity, transport costs and reliability when selecting freight routes.
“For the logistics industry, connectivity, competitive costs and reliable transport options help keep freight moving efficiently. We welcome the dialogue with EJMT and see potential for Lamongan to provide additional routing options for businesses moving freight between East Java and the wider eastern part of the country,” Wibisono said.
Major manufacturing and consumer center
East Java is one of Indonesia’s major manufacturing and consumer centers, making its transport connections important to both domestic and regional supply chains.
Largo said consultations with cargo owners and logistics companies could help the terminal identify emerging demand and areas where services could be improved.
“East Java is one of Indonesia’s major production and consumption centers, making reliable transport links critical to domestic and regional trade. Regular engagement with cargo owners and service providers helps us understand where demand is increasing and where improvements can be made,” he said.
Lamongan as alternative gateway
Located within the Lamongan Shorebase complex, about 60 kilometers west of Surabaya, EJMT handles containerized, bulk, breakbulk, project and heavy-lift cargo.
The terminal began operations in October 2024 and serves Lamongan, Tuban and surrounding industrial areas. Its location provides customers access to port, warehousing and bonded logistics facilities and nearby industrial developments, including the Jakamitra Industrial Park i-sentra project.
The terminal is a joint venture between Manila-based ICTSI and Indonesian offshore oil and gas supply base operator East Log Holdings.
Identify potential cargo volumes
The 5 August meeting also included former EJMT chief executive officer Patrick Chan. EJMT and ALFI/ILFA agreed to continue engaging manufacturers, freight operators and cargo owners to identify potential cargo volumes and business requirements between East Java and Eastern Indonesia.
ICTSI also operates the Batu Ampar Container Terminal in Batam, which serves the Riau Islands and handles regional and international shipments along the Strait of Malacca.
The Philippine-headquartered port operator has terminals and projects across the Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.