Indonesia Sets Sights on Becoming World’s Top 4 Ceramic Producer

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Industry is doubling down on its support for the national ceramic sector, aiming to propel Indonesia into the elite ranks of the world's top four producers. With strong ties to the property and construction sectors, the industry is being positioned as a strategic pillar of the "Asta Cita" national development vision.

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita highlighted that the industry already possesses a robust foundation, utilizing local natural resources and serving a massive domestic market. Currently, the national installed capacity stands at 650 million square meters per year, with production utilization expected to reach 73 percent in 2025, providing livelihoods for 150,000 workers.

"With this potential capacity and foundation, the national ceramics industry has a great opportunity to break into the top four global ceramics producers," said Minister Agus during his address on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, as quoted by Ministry of Industry official website.

To sharpen competitiveness, the government has implemented several key measures, including a fixed industrial gas price (HGBT) of USD 7 per MMBTU. Protectionist measures are also in place, such as mandatory Indonesian National Standards (SNI) and anti-dumping duties (BMAD) on imported ceramic tiles to ensure a fair playing field.

A new highlight for the industry is President Prabowo Subianto's "Gentengisasi" program, introduced under the Indonesia ASRI Movement. This initiative promotes the use of clay roof tiles, which are considered more durable, environmentally friendly, and cooler than alternative materials. Minister Agus urged the Indonesian Ceramic Industry Association (ASAKI) to seize this opportunity.

Despite the optimism, the industry faces a significant hurdle: a temporary moratorium on raw material supplies from West Java. Given that 50–60 percent of the national ceramic industry's raw materials originate from this province, the Ministry is moving quickly to intervene.

"I have instructed the Director General of IKFT to immediately coordinate with the West Java Provincial Government to find the best solution," the Minister noted, aiming to resolve the supply chain disruption and maintain industrial momentum.

The Ministry expressed belief that there is vast room for expansion, noting that Indonesia’s ceramic consumption of 2.5 square meters per capita remains lower than the average across ASEAN nations. Growth is expected to be fueled by several high-profile government programs, such as the Three Million Houses Project, which involves massive residential development. 

Additionally, nationwide school renovations aimed at improving educational infrastructure and the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program will support broader economic activity. Finally, various infrastructure projects spanning the government, state-owned enterprises, and private sectors are set to drive further demand for ceramic products.

By integrating Industry 4.0 technologies like digital printing and strengthening the Halal industry as a new growth engine, the Ministry remains confident that Indonesian ceramics will not only dominate the domestic market but also become a formidable global competitor. ***