Indonesia’s Craft Sector Exports Hit USD 305 Million

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesia's artisanal craft industry is proving to be a global powerhouse. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Industry's press release, export performance for the craft sector reached USD 305.54 million by the third quarter of 2025, nearly doubling the previous quarter's figures.

This growth was showcased at the recently concluded 2026 Inacraft (Jakarta International Handicraft Trade Fair) from February 4–8. In the event, the government highlighted the increasing competitiveness and creativity of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the international market. The Ministry of Industry uses this event to promote exports of domestic products.

“Inacraft is a strategic venue for craft business players to further expand their market. The Ministry of Industry's facilitation and guidance for IKM is a form of appreciation and pride for domestic products, as well as an effort to open wider promotional opportunities for domestic IKM," Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, stated in his statement from the press release in Jakarta, Sunday, 15 February 2026.

Held annually at the Jakarta Convention Center, Inacraft serves as a gateway for Indonesian artisans to meet global buyers. In 2026, the event specifically honored "Womenpreneurs," celebrating the pivotal role women play in driving Indonesia's creative economy.

The ministry's Directorate General of Small, Medium, and Miscellaneous Industries (IKMA) facilitated eight standout SMEs this year, curated for their innovation and readiness for the global market. These products are crafts made from horn, natural fibers, and upcycled wood waste.

Jewelry, premium leather goods, and traditional hand-woven textiles, are also among the eight. These eight featured SMEs alone recorded transactions totaling IDR 338.16 million during the five-day event, signaling strong market appetite for authentic Indonesian craftsmanship.

"Local raw materials combined with a touch of art and design aspects produce works of high market value. Therefore, we encourage SMEs to continue to present products that are innovative, creative and have strong character to increase the attractiveness of Indonesian craft products in the eyes of national and international consumers," IKMA Director General, Reni Yanita conveyed.

Inacraft 2026 was aimed to be a catalyst for Indonesia’s creative economy with a targeted attendance of 100,000 visitors and the participation of over 1,000 international buyers. According to the press release, Director of Small and Medium Industries (IKM) for Chemical, Clothing, and Craft, Budi Setiawan, noted that the success of these artisans in penetrating both national and global markets is a vital contribution to the country’s industrial competitiveness.

Ultimately, the exhibition serves as more than just a celebration of Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage; it is a strategic platform for local SMEs to enhance their capacity through improved design, quality, and continuous product innovation.