Indonesia Eyes Export Expansion Amid Saudi Vision 2030

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Ministry of Trade is encouraging Indonesian businesses to boost exports of non-oil and gas products to Saudi Arabia, aiming to capitalize on opportunities created by Saudi Vision 2030.

The ministry believes the Saudi market holds significant potential for Indonesian products and is promoting a stronger presence of domestic goods across the Middle East.

Indonesian Trade Attaché in Riyadh, Zulvri, said Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation policies will reduce reliance on the oil and gas sector. “Changes in Saudi Arabia’s economic structure will help expand opportunities for Indonesian products to enter that country’s market through increased demand,” he said in a statement quoted by RRI on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

According to the Strategic Management Office of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, Saudi Vision 2030 has achieved 93 percent of its transformation targets by 2025. The Saudi government monitors progress through key indicators and sub-indicators.

Zulvri highlighted the halal food and beverage sector as a growth area, driven by rising numbers of religious tourists and Umrah pilgrims. He said the Trade Attaché is preparing to facilitate business negotiations between Indonesian and Saudi companies to expand export markets.

The number of international Umrah pilgrims in Saudi Arabia is projected to reach 18.03 million by 2025, boosting demand for ready-to-eat meals, religious supplies, and consumer goods. Zulvri added that Indonesia has a strong opportunity to become a primary supplier of halal products, though competition from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam remains.

He also pointed to growing market opportunities in skincare, modest fashion, and professional services for women, supported by female workforce participation in Saudi Arabia reaching 35 percent.

Additionally, the development of smart cities and industrial zones is opening demand for Indonesian industrial products, including wooden furniture, interior décor, and building materials.

From January to March 2026, total trade between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia reached US$1.35 billion, with Indonesia’s exports valued at US$527.40 million.

Key export commodities include vehicles and parts, animal fats and vegetable oils, seagoing vessels, processed foods, and timber products. Imports from Saudi Arabia are dominated by salt, sulfur, plastics, organic chemicals, and fruits. (Gusti Panji)