RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia's Minister of Creative Economy/Head of the Creative Economy Agency, Teuku Riefky Harsya, emphasized the strategic role of women in strengthening Indonesia’s national craft subsector at the opening of the 26th Jakarta International Handicraft Trade Fair (INACRAFT) 2026. He said women have made tangible contributions to the development of the creative economy.

The 26th edition of INACRAFT will take place from 4–8 February 2026. For this edition, INACRAFT carries the theme 'Exploring and Celebrating Womenpreneurs in Craft'.

"Women have become innovators, entrepreneurs, as well as custodians of cultural values who contribute tangibly to strengthening household economies, driving regional economic growth, and producing adaptive and competitive craft products," Harsya said during his remarks at INACRAFT 2026, held at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC) on Wednesday, 4 February 2026.

The exhibition, partly organized by the Indonesian Handicraft Producers Association (ASEPHI), is known as a strategic platform, showcasing women craft entrepreneurs to promote innovation, competitiveness, and an inclusive and sustainable ecosystem. Harsya further underscored that the craft subsector holds a strategic position within the national creative economy.

Moreover, based on 2025 data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS), during January-November 2025, fashion and craft emerged as the two main contributors to Indonesia’s creative economy exports. The data recorded craft export achievements amounting to US$12,034.1 million.

"This achievement demonstrates that craft is not merely a form of cultural expression, but also a driver of trade and a creator of national economic value added," Harsya affirmed, as quoted from a statement released on Wednesday.

In line with efforts to strengthen the craft subsector as a driver of the national creative economy, the Ministry of Creative Economy extended its support to INACRAFT 2026 through its involvement in the judging process of the INACRAFT Awards. The ministry is also facilitating a showcase of curated craft brands at the Assembly Hall, booths number 8-9.

Three craft brands fostered by the Ministry of Creative Economy are featured at INACRAFT 2026. Those are Decak Handmade, presenting sustainable textile patchwork products empowering women artisans; Indang Apang Galeri, which elevates rattan weaving into functional works with cultural value; and Elsaria Ulos from North Sumatra, showcasing traditional woven ulos textiles with innovations in motifs and natural dyeing techniques.

In this year’s edition, INACRAFT also introduces two new categories in the INACRAFT Awards 2026: the INACRAFT Digital Excellence Award 2026 and the INACRAFT Womenpreneurs Award 2026. They are a form of appreciation for innovations in the use of digital technology and the outstanding contributions of women in the craft subsector.