KONTAN.CO.ID - JAKARTA. JAKARTA. PT Humpuss Maritim Internasional Tbk (HUMI), a prominent shipping issuer, has allocated a capital expenditure (capex) budget of US$ 50.51 million for this year.

Okty Saptarini, HUMI's Corporate Secretary, explained that the capex fund will be used to add nine new vessels to their fleet this year. The breakdown includes three chemical transport tankers, one liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker, and five tugboats.

"The addition of these vessels is in line with market demand, where these types of ships are highly sought after in Indonesia," Okty told KONTAN last week.

Throughout 2023, HUMI has added four new vessels to its fleet. By the end of 2023, HUMI's total fleet will consist of 36 vessels. Meanwhile, HUMI plans to bring in 10 new ships each year until 2029.

Baca Juga: Humpuss Maritim (HUMI) Targets 20% Profit Growth in 2024

Okty explained that the addition of these vessels is part of HUMI's efforts to meet the increasing market demand. One such demand is for biodiesel transport, following the implementation of a mandatory biodiesel policy that was raised to 35% (B35) in 2023.

According to Okty, Indonesia currently has only one methanol producer located in Kalimantan, PT Kaltim Methanol Industri, with an annual production capacity of 660,000 tons.

However, it is predicted that more companies will develop this biodiesel raw material in the future. One such material is methanol derived from coal and natural gas. Consequently, the need for transport of these commodities will increase.

Baca Juga: Humpuss Maritime Strategic: Allocates $51.5 Million for Expansion with 9 New Ships

"In line with the growth in demand for methanol for biodiesel production, HUMI, as a logistics partner, will play a crucial role in supporting this industry to continue to grow," she elaborated.

With the continuous addition of vessels, HUMI is optimistic that its net profit growth this year can increase by 20.50% compared to 2023. The non-audited achievement throughout 2023 recorded a net operating profit of US$ 14.70 million.

"This means an increase of 35% compared to the net profit in 2022, while management initially targeted 20% at the end of 2023," she said.

Previously, HUMI's President Director, Tirta Hidayat, stated that HUMI also plans to expand into international markets, especially in the Middle East. This is due to the increasing demand for ship transport in the region.

"This is certainly an opportunity for us to expand," said Tirta.

Editor: Syamsul Azhar