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Indonesia’s Instant Noodle Market in Numbers

Prepared by PT. TRICRUISE MARKETING INDONESIA based on Katadata Instagram @katadatacoid

Indonesia Is the World’s Second Largest Consumer of Instant Noodles

According to the World Instant Noodles Association, Indonesia ranks as the second-largest consumer of instant noodles globally, consuming 14.3 billion servings in 2022 alone. By comparison, Japan consumed 6 billion servings in the same year, placing it fifth worldwide.

In Japan, instant noodles are typically prepared and consumed at home. In contrast, Indonesia also has a widespread culture of dining at “Warmindo”—small eateries specializing in instant noodles. These Warmindo establishments are a familiar part of daily life and significantly contribute to Indonesia’s high consumption of instant noodles.

Several instant noodle brands are available in Indonesia, with Indomie being the most representative. Indomie is exported to countries around the world, including Japan. According to Indonesia’s Central Statistics Agency, the export value of Indomie in 2020 exceeded USD 271.3 million (approx. JPY 38.43 billion*).

*Exchange rate reference: USD 1 = JPY 141.6 (as of May 2025)

Annual Per Capita Consumption: 19 Servings in Indonesia

When calculated on a per capita basis, Indonesia—whose population totals 273.8 million—consumes 19 servings of instant noodles per person annually. In comparison, Japan—with a population of 125.7 million—consumes 21 servings per person annually. Japan slightly exceeds Indonesia, befitting its role as the birthplace of cup noodles.

In Japan, instant noodles are almost synonymous with ramen.

In Indonesia, “Mie” refers to yellow Chinese-style noodles that resemble ramen. Instant mie products typically come in two types: soup-based noodles similar to ramen and stir-fried varieties. Packages usually include dried noodles, seasoning powder, and either chili powder or chili sauce.

Reference: Katadata Instagram @katadatacoid

A Visual Look at Indonesia’s Instant Noodle Culture

“Warmindo”: Instant Noodle Eateries

In Indonesia, Warung can be found everywhere.

A Warung refers to a small-scale eatery, café, or general store. When it serves food, it typically offers simple menu items such as instant noodles, toast, and instant beverages. These places function not only as eateries but also as informal social hubs for neighbors, motorcycle taxi drivers, construction workers, and others.

Among these establishments, those that primarily serve instant noodles are known as Warmindo. They range from simple stalls offering basic cooked mie, to restaurants with a wide selection of instant noodles prepared with unique twists and customizations. Some even go viral on social media and gain popularity as local specialty eateries.

Indomie’s Popularity Abroad

Indomie, Indonesia’s representative instant noodle brand, is beloved in many countries around the world.

One notable example is Nigeria, a country in West Africa.

According to digital media outlet vice.com, Indomie holds a 74% market share in Nigeria’s instant noodle industry. In Nigeria, Indomie is locally manufactured and widely recognized through television commercials. As shown in the video, Warmindo-style eateries that serve prepared Indomie dishes are also gaining popularity.

Some varieties of Indomie are also available for purchase in Japan at international grocery stores and specialty food markets.

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The Depth of Indonesia’s Instant Noodles

The noodle known as “Mie” in Indonesia resembles yellow Chinese-style noodles similar to ramen, but its texture and seasoning are distinct.

While instant noodles inspired by Japanese or Korean ramen have become increasingly popular in recent years, the most favored choice remains mie. With its unique combination of chemical seasoning flavors and bold taste profiles—often very spicy—it tends to polarize Japanese consumers. However, for those who become accustomed to it, it can be quite addictive. Many people also enjoy customizing the preparation method or seasoning to suit their personal preferences.

Whether you are currently residing in Indonesia or planning a visit, why not give it a try? You can purchase a packet for around JPY 30 at convenience stores or supermarkets.