The Ministry of Trade acknowledged that Batam's exports contributed to increasing exports nationally. Even during the pandemic, Batam still contributes to national exports. "Exports carried out by industry in Batam contribute to the development of the national industry," said Deputy Minister of Trade Jerry Sambuaga, when releasing the export of bicycle component products from PT Shimano Batam, last Saturday (26/2/2022). Jerry, who was accompanied by the Deputy Governor of the Riau Islands, Marlin Agustina, and the President Director of Shimano Batam, Mr. Choo Chong Boo, released the export of the bicycle components marked by the installation of the seal lock on the container. This release also marks the export of the manufacturing industry is still increasing significantly. He also said that the export of finished products was following President Jokowi's directives. Finished products provide added value to the Indonesian economy as well as globally. Jerry added that the global political constellation also influences Indonesian exports. According to him, Indonesia has reaped positive benefits from this condition. "We continue to strive for exports," he said.

He said that in December 2021, Indonesia's export value was the highest, at US$ 235.54 billion. The trade balance at that time was US$ 35.34 billion. This highest export value, with the delivery of finished goods to America, Australia, Europe, Asia, and Africa. One sector that has contributed significantly is the manufacturing industry such as Shimano. “To increase exports, we have increased trade agreements that also contribute to export development. This time, the products exported were finished goods, not raw. So it provides export value," he said. Jerry thanked the business actors in Batam who continued to improve their quality. So that the value of Indonesia's exports continues to increase. The export value of PT Shimano Batam in 2020 reached IDR 725 billion. In 2021, it will increase by IDR 979 billion, with components exported as many as 93.13 million units. It is expected that next year's export value will continue to increase. "We will continue to encourage an increase in the value of exports from the industrial sector. In addition to increasing added value, the Ministry of Trade will encourage market expansion to trading partner countries," he said.

Source: https://metropolis.batampos.co.id/ekspor-batam-tingkatkan-ekspor-nasional/