Indonesia has officially launched its first export of kratom, marking a significant milestone for the country's agricultural trade. This inaugural shipment, which consists of 351 tons of kratom powder valued at USD 1.05 million (approximately Rp 17 billion), took place at PT Oneject Indonesia facilities located in Cikarang, West Java.
On February 28, 2025, Minister of Trade Budi Santoso presided over the export event, emphasizing its importance not only for Indonesian exporters but also for local farmers who cultivate this unique plant. 'I appreciate all parties who have synergized to realize the export regulations for kratom, providing benefits for farmers and kratom exporters,' said Santoso, showcasing the positivity surrounding the venture.
Kratom, which is known to flourish along the Kapuas River on the island of Kalimantan, has been celebrated for its quality and potential medicinal uses. Previously, kratom was primarily exported as raw leaves without sufficient regulation, which often led to low prices and quality issues. Under the new guidelines enacted by the Indonesian government, the export of kratom is now regulated to add value and improve marketability, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to enhancing its agricultural exports.
Before the implementation of the new regulations, exports of kratom faced significant challenges. 'Before there were regulations, kratom exports were still free and raw, which potentially caused various problems,' Minister Santoso explained. The risks associated with unregulated exports often resulted in unfavorable pricing and the marginalization of small-holder farmers. The new regulatory framework aims to transform this scenario by enforcing strict guidelines.
The regulations, outlined under the Minister of Trade Regulation (Permendag) Number 21 of 2024, specify the conditions under which kratom can be exported. Kratom set for international markets must be prepared as powder with specific size limitations—no larger than 600 microns. This precision is intended to guarantee not just the quality but also the competitive pricing of Indonesian kratom internationally.
PT Oneject Indonesia has played a pivotal role by providing sterilization and preparation services to meet these regulatory standards. The process is aimed at elevitating the kratom products to meet international quality expectations. 'Our collaboration with PT Oneject ensures our products do not just comply with local standards but also meet international expectations,' Santoso noted during the export event.
With the export of kratom now officially underway, it opens up new avenues for Indonesian agriculture, especially with noteworthy markets such as the United States, Japan, and Europe being targeted. The shipment consisted of multiple containers processed through the Indonesia-China Integrated Industrial Area, demonstrating the strategic logistical planning behind this venture.
The initial export marks not only the commencement of kratom's regulated international trade but also signifies Indonesia's effort to boost its agricultural export portfolio, aligning with its economic growth ambitions. The approach reflects the nation's desire to add value to its natural resources and provide fair opportunities for local farmers.
Minister Budi Santoso expressed optimism for the future of kratom exports, stating, 'I hope this first export release can be momentum for continuous development to encourage the expansion of export markets for Indonesian products, as well as stimulate the national economy.' This encouragement for future growth is aimed at fostering not only the agricultural sector but the broader economic fabric of the nation.
Kratom, once relegated to mere commodity status, is poised to transform under this new export strategy. With the government focused on introducing regulations for enhanced quality and higher financial returns for farmers, it stands to reason kratom could ascend to significant prominence on the global stage.