Dian Rahma Fika, Jakarta – Indonesia's Minister of Villages and Underdeveloped Regions, Yandri Susanto, has partnered with Minister of Trade Budi Santoso to enhance the export potential of rural commodities. Many villages across the country produce high-value export goods, such as palm sugar, corn, cashews, vannamei shrimp, and djembe drums, yet they struggle with market access.
"We will create thousands of export villages. Strong collaboration with the Minister of Trade is crucial to ensuring this rural potential is not overlooked or wasted," Yandri stated during a speech at the Ministry of Villages in Jakarta on Thursday, February 27.
He noted that marketing efforts for these village-produced goods remain underdeveloped, requiring greater support to expand their presence in international markets. To formalize the initiative, Yandri signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Minister Budi Santoso.
The export village program is also expected to support Indonesia's target of 8% economic growth by 2029. "With proper market access and guidance, these villages can become a key source of revenue and contribute to achieving the President's economic growth target," Yandri said.
The minister highlighted several regions with strong potential for export village development, including Central Java, East Java, East Kalimantan, and Sulawesi. "Many villages have export-worthy products but lack the knowledge or channels to market them effectively. This is where collaboration between the Ministry of Villages and the Ministry of Trade is essential," he concluded.