Speaking at a seminar during the Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI) in Tangerang, she said shifting global dynamics present both challenges and opportunities for trade.
"This situation pushes us to rethink how we can enter markets beyond our traditional destinations," Esti said.
She pointed to a major shift in the global economic landscape, noting that Asia now contributes 40 percent to global GDP, signaling the region's growing influence.
With its strategic location, Indonesia is well-positioned to enhance regional integration and take a stronger role in global supply chains, she added.
Esti highlighted Indonesia’s transition from raw material exports to value-added products, crediting the country’s industrial downstreaming policies.
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"The rise in exports of nickel-based goods, crude palm oil derivatives, and processed chemicals shows the growing strength of our manufacturing sector," she said.
To support further export growth, Esti encouraged businesses to leverage the 24 trade agreements Indonesia has signed with 30 countries, including preferential, free trade, and comprehensive economic partnership agreements.
“These trade deals open the door for wider market access, which our businesses must take advantage of,” she said.
The Trade Ministry has set a 2025 export growth target of 7.1 percent, aligned with Indonesia’s goal of reaching eight percent overall economic growth.
From January to August 2025, Indonesia’s exports reached $185.12 billion, a 7.72 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to ministry data.
The government hopes this momentum will continue as Indonesian exporters tap into non-traditional markets and adapt to changing global trade flows.
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Translator: Maria Cicilia, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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