On Wednesday, April 16, 2025, the Indonesian government announced significant strides in boosting the nation's export potential, particularly in the fisheries and agricultural sectors. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is setting ambitious targets to elevate national fishery product exports to Rp21.58 trillion by the end of 2025, with a strong emphasis on increasing shipments to China, which is a primary market for Indonesian fishery products.
Fishermen were seen unloading fish from boats at the Higienis Sodoha Fish Landing Site in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi. This effort is part of a broader initiative by the KKP to enhance the quality and quantity of fishery exports, ensuring that Indonesia remains competitive in the global market. The ministry's commitment to this goal reflects a strategic approach to not only increase revenue but also to support local economies reliant on fishing.
Meanwhile, Garuda Indonesia is playing a crucial role in supporting the export of Aceh's patchouli oil to Paris, France. The airline facilitated the first shipment of this valuable commodity, transporting at least one ton of patchouli oil from Banda Aceh to Jakarta, then to Amsterdam, and finally to Paris. Ade R. Susardi, the Director of Commerce at Garuda Indonesia, expressed pride in the airline's participation in enhancing the competitiveness of national export products.
"It is a great honor for us as a national flag carrier to participate in efforts to enhance the competitiveness of national superior products, particularly through the provision of flight networks to various export destinations, especially France, which is known for its high-quality fashion products," Susardi stated.
The production of patchouli oil in Aceh reaches 159 tons annually, with a potential export capacity of 36 tons. The support from Garuda Indonesia is expected to improve the logistics and accessibility for Aceh's products, ultimately leading to a more competitive market position. Banda Aceh's Mayor, Illiza Sa'adudin Djamal, also emphasized the unique qualities of Aceh's patchouli oil, which is highly sought after in the global market.
In addition to fisheries and agriculture, the Ministry of Trade (Kemendag) has reported impressive results from its facilitation of business matching for micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM). From January to March 2025, these initiatives recorded a transaction value of USD 13.86 million (approximately Rp233.14 billion). This figure includes purchase orders amounting to USD 3.91 million and potential transactions valued at USD 9.95 million.
Budi Santoso, the Minister of Trade, highlighted that the success of these business matching activities demonstrates the global market's interest in Indonesian UMKM products. "This shows that Indonesian UMKM products are in demand in the global market," he remarked.
During the first quarter of 2025, a total of 219 business matching activities were conducted, consisting of 145 meetings between UMKM representatives and Indonesian trade officials abroad, along with 74 meetings with foreign buyers. These efforts are aimed at creating opportunities for local businesses to expand their reach internationally.
In March 2025 alone, purchase orders from these business matching activities amounted to USD 5.09 million. Notably, orders originated from Japan for various snack products, herbal drinks made from Moringa leaves, dried frozen fruits, frozen sweet potato paste, tempeh chips, and pottery, totaling USD 489,000. Additionally, Saudi Arabia placed orders for tempeh and soy sauce products worth USD 73,000.
Fajarini Puntodewi, the Director General of National Export Development at Kemendag, indicated that the achievements are a result of robust collaboration among various stakeholders, particularly those supporting UMKM. She expressed optimism about the potential for further growth in export transactions, emphasizing the government's commitment to enhancing synergies in export activities.
"Business matching will continue in the second quarter of 2025, maintaining the intensity of implementation and involving more UMKM. We are also coordinating with UMKM mentors to curate businesses that meet buyer demands," Puntodewi added.
The Indonesian government is also focusing on improving logistics and transportation services to support these export initiatives. With a tropical climate, Indonesia is known for its high-quality raw materials, making it an attractive source for various products, including essential oils and agricultural goods.
As the country strives to increase its export capabilities, these initiatives are seen as vital for economic growth and sustainability. The collaboration between government agencies, airlines, and local businesses aims to create a more favorable environment for Indonesian products in the global market. The ongoing efforts to streamline logistics and enhance product quality will undoubtedly play a significant role in achieving the ambitious export targets set for 2025.
In conclusion, the concerted efforts by Indonesia's government and private sectors to bolster exports reflect a strong commitment to economic development. By targeting key markets and enhancing product competitiveness, Indonesia is positioning itself as a formidable player in the global trade arena.
