Defrosting the potential of Indonesia’s cold chain logistics

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Hi there,

Despite playing a critical role in our lives, logistics has never been a sexy topic. But at Tech in Asia, we want to spotlight startups that try to solve complex, grueling, behind-the-scenes problems.

In this week’s Big Story, written by my colleague, Jofie, we look at cold chain logistics, a promising sector in Indonesia in the post-Covid era.

Cold chain logistics deals with the transportation of temperature-controlled products. In Indonesia, this market could be worth more than US$12 billion by 2031, according to the US-based Allied Market Research. The research firm also notes that the sector is suffering from “a lack of standardization and high operational costs.”

That’s where startups like Paxel, Superkul, and Fresh Factory come in. These startups aim to integrate cold chain services with tech such as on-demand apps for last-mile delivery or smart warehousing systems. But with fuel prices on the rise and large incumbent domestic players in the logistics sector, can these startups prevail?

For the weekly Hot Take, I predict that ByteDance might have another treat for Southeast Asia after rolling out TikTok Shop to disrupt established ecommerce marketplaces. In the future, you might end up booking your next massage or haircut on TikTok. Surprised?

– Huong

THE BIG STORY

Is cold chain the next growth opportunity for Indonesia’s logistics startups?

Image credit: Timmy Loen

As the price war in ecommerce logistics intensifies, cold chain may be the space to watch.

THE HOT TAKE

After launching TikTok Shop, ByteDance might expand local-life services to SEA

Photo credit: ByteDance

NEWS YOU SHOULD KNOW

FYI