Govt's Small Business Program Grows Significantly in March

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The government’s small-business export program "UMKM BISA Ekspor" recorded vigorous growth in the first quarter of 2026. The total transactions reached USD 23.60 million with a significant surge occurring in March 2026.

In a press release, Trade Minister, Budi Santoso, stated the achievement reflects effective strategies supporting small businesses entering global markets. He underscored that business matching activities have become more intensive and targeted toward international buyers.

"This achievement of the UMKM BISA Expor program in the first quarter of 2026 shows that our small businesses are becoming increasingly competitive in international markets,” Budi said. According to him, the government will continuously expand market access and boost export promotion efforts.

The Directorate General of National Export Development recorded transaction potential from agreements and purchase orders in Q1 2026. The total includes USD 19.64 million from memorandums of understanding and USD 3.96 million from purchase orders.

During the period, some 170 business matching activities were held, involving 396 small businesses. The bussines matching connected local enterprises with global buyers across multiple sectors.

In addition, the program reached international markets including Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, and Canada. It also expanded into regions across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Export sectors attracting buyers include seafood processing, home decor, health products, spices, and agriculture commodities. Other sectors include fashion, cosmetics, cocoa, paper, coconut products, herbal items, and plastic-based goods.

“We do not only connect small businesses with buyers, but also ensure product readiness, quality, and production capacity to consistently meet global market demand,” Director General Fajarini Puntodewi conveyed.