RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Industry is promoting market expansion and strengthening business partnership networks for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the handicraft sector. One of its initiatives is a business-matching forum that connects SMEs with potential buyers and industry partners.

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita said the program is a strategic step to expand marketing networks and open broader opportunities for cooperation. “This initiative also serves as a platform to strengthen the national handicraft industry ecosystem, making it increasingly competitive,” he stated in Jakarta on Monday, March 16, 2026, as quoted on the ministry’s official website.

Minister Agus noted that Indonesia’s handicraft industry has strengths in creativity, cultural richness, and artisan skills. The government continues to enhance the sector’s competitiveness through capacity-building programs and sustainable market access expansion.

The 2026 Handicraft SME Business Matching event was held in Yogyakarta on March 10, bringing together SMEs, buyers, industry associations, and hospitality sector representatives, including hotels and restaurants.

Director General of Small, Medium, and Miscellaneous Industries (IKMA), Reni Yanita, said Indonesian handicraft products have proven capable of penetrating export markets, with exports reaching USD 806.63 million in 2025, an increase of 15.46 percent compared to 2024. The main markets include China, Taiwan, the United States, Japan, and European countries.

“This improvement in export performance indicates that national handicraft products have great potential to continue growing in the global market. Therefore, improving product quality, design innovation, consistent production quality, and strengthening marketing networks are crucial areas that handicraft SMEs must continue to prioritize,” Reni added.

Director of the Ministry’s Chemical, Textile, and Handicraft SMEs Division, Budi Setiawan, said the forum helps SMEs understand market needs while preparing for sustainable business collaborations. “This event is not only a meeting point between SMEs and buyers but also a learning platform for SME operators to understand market needs,” he said.

The event, attended by 50 SME operators from various regions, also featured a panel discussion on the legality of raw materials under the Timber Legality Verification System (SVLK). Industry associations, hospitality sector representatives, and government agencies also participated, providing business consultation and technical assistance to SME operators. ***