Indonesia's furniture industry is showing positive performance in the midst of various challenges in the domestic and global economies, Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Minister Teten Masduki said.

At the Furniture Industry Gathering event in Jakarta on Wednesday, he noted that data in the last five years from 2018 to 2022 showed a relatively consistent increase in the exports of furniture products. In 2022, the export value reached US$2.9 billion, up from US$2.8 billion in 2021.

Masduki stated that this momentum fuels optimism in achieving the ambitious target of US$5 billion in furniture exports by 2024.

However, he acknowledged the industry faces challenges. These include securing a sustainable supply of raw materials, fostering design innovation, and enhancing the skills of the workforce.

He affirmed that the government continues to strive to increase the industry's competitiveness and achieve the export target set by creating a conducive business ecosystem.

The efforts made comprise preparing integrated market intelligence and one-stop access to information for export aggregators, providing financing, and developing the Indonesia Trading House to expand the export marketing network and make Indonesia a global trade hub.

Masduki expressed optimism that, with its rich products, unique designs, and cultural motifs, Indonesia has the strength to make its presence felt on the international furniture market.

To this end, he supports the 2024 IFFINA Indonesia Meubel and Design Expo, to be held on September 14–17, which is expected to build closer partnerships between Indonesian furniture businesses and international partners.

Furthermore, he invited all stakeholders to support the program of using domestic products in accordance with Presidential Instruction Number 2 of 2022 to increase the competitiveness of domestic products while encouraging national economic growth.

"This policy not only increases (the use of) local products in government projects but also inspires wider use in various sectors," he remarked.

Source: antaranews.com