In a statement issued by the ministry on Saturday, Deputy Minister of Industry, Faisol Riza, listed the issues faced by the sector in terms of sustainability and standardization of raw materials, limited product diversification, human resource competence, and restricted access to global markets.
To address those challenges, the ministry has taken some strategic steps, including developing a national essential oil industry road map, creating a national essential oil database, and promoting and enabling geographical indications for essential oils.
Other steps have included strengthening flavor and fragrance centers (PFF) in West Sumatra and Bali, as well as organizing regional fragrance competitions at the provincial, district, and city levels.
“These measures are the foundation for building a competitive, sustainable essential oil industry that contributes to national economic growth,” Riza said.
He stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration in developing a comprehensive aroma industry ecosystem from upstream to downstream. Upstream efforts should include assisting farmers, regenerating distillers, and strengthening cooperatives, he said.
Meanwhile, in the midstream and downstream sectors, innovation in technology, formulation, and design is needed to ensure Indonesian aroma products can compete globally.
Furthermore, in terms of marketing, collective branding strategies and strong trade diplomacy are needed to put Indonesia’s aroma industry on the global stage.
Riza said he is optimistic that Indonesia can establish an inclusive aroma ecosystem that is based on local wisdom and scientific innovation and ensures environmental and social sustainability.
The ministry recently held Aromatika Indofest 2025, which brought together industry players, creative communities, academia, and government to build a strong and globally competitive aroma industry ecosystem.
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Translator: Fauzan, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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