Toyota Indonesia Exports Potentially Impacted by US Attack on Venezuela

KatadataOTO – The United States' attack on Venezuela has received special attention from Toyota Indonesia. This is because the country is one of the export destinations for Indonesian-made cars.

The attack is expected to affect political conditions and potentially hinder the market in Venezuela and South America.

“We are still studying the global geopolitical dynamics. Currently, Toyota Indonesia is conducting further studies and cannot yet comment on the direct impact on Toyota's export performance to the South American region,” said Bob Azam,  Vice President Director of PT Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (TMMIN) to KatadataOTO some time ago.

From January to November 2025 alone, they have shipped at least 5,877 units. Of this total, the Toyota Wigo was the most shipped model with 4,869 units, followed by the Yaris Cross with 1,008 units.

Photo: TMMIN

This number is considered large, given that the Toyota factory in Cumana, Venezuela has faced various operational disruptions.

It even caused production numbers to decline, becoming only a few hundred vehicles per year since 2020 due to a temporary shutdown caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Toyota itself is currently very cautious in determining its policies. They have even advised all expatriate staff not to work from the office. Nevertheless, Toyota ensures that all expatriate staff and their families are safe, although the situation in Venezuela is not yet stable.

Therefore, the Japanese brand has asked its expatriate staff to complete their duties by working from home (WFH).

Furthermore, it was mentioned that the WFH decision for Toyota employees will not affect sales or production operations.

Pressure Comes from Various Countries

Besides Venezuela, challenges for vehicle exports from Indonesia also come from other countries like Mexico. This is because they are implementing a protection system to safeguard the domestic vehicle industry.

However, the impact of this policy cannot be seen instantly. Toyota Indonesia believes that automotive products are not something that can be easily replaced.

Photo: Courtesy

Moreover, they will provide a variety of products to meet market needs in other regions. Thus, car exports can continue to grow in the future.

“Along with the increasing mobility needs and diversification of export markets, the competitiveness of Indonesian automotive products must continue to be improved. Including through the development of environmentally friendly vehicles,” concluded Bob Azam.