JAKARTA, July 25 (Xinhua) -- The Association of Indonesia Automotive Industries (GAIKINDO) has forecast that car sales in Indonesia will exceed 800,000 units this year, according to the association's Chairman Yohannes Nangoi on Friday.

Speaking at the GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show, Nangoi acknowledged that domestic car sales continue to face challenges. However, he remains optimistic that the decline will not be as severe as last year.

"Domestic sales are down. But I still hope to reach 800,000 units," he said.

According to GAIKINDO data, total wholesale car distribution, defined as new vehicles shipped from factories to dealers, reached 374,740 units in the first half of this year.

Despite the slowdown in local demand, Nangoi emphasized that the automotive industry remains resilient, with export growth playing an increasingly important role in supporting the sector through the rest of the year.

He added that continued policy support, government stimulus, and efforts to access new markets are expected to boost the competitiveness of vehicles manufactured in Indonesia.

"In business, ups and downs are inevitable. But we believe that this industry has the strength to overcome difficult times and will emerge stronger," Nangoi noted. ■