The West Java Provincial Government is eyeing new markets in the Southeast Asia (ASEAN) and the Middle East regions as destinations for the export of rattan furniture from Cirebon Regency. Noneng Komara Nengsih, Head of the Department of Industry and Trade of West Java Province, highlighted the potential of ASEAN, the Middle East, and Africa as new export destinations for rattan furniture, aiming to diversify beyond the European market. Despite successful penetration into the European market in recent years, global conflicts have disrupted the shipment of rattan furniture from Cirebon to European countries, leading to a decline in trends. Noneng emphasized the need to expand the export of rattan furniture to countries beyond Europe, citing efforts to explore markets in ASEAN, the Middle East, and Africa. Although there was a decrease in orders from Europe in 2022 due to global conflicts, the overall condition of rattan furniture exports from West Java remains favorable.
While the European market faced challenges in 2022, Noneng assured that the current state of rattan furniture exports from West Java is robust. Despite the decline in exports to Europe, West Java maintained its position as the top exporter nationally, contributing 14.4% to the total exports of the province in 2023, a significant increase from the 13% recorded in 2022. Noneng reported that West Java's total exports for 2023 amounted to IDR 33 trillion, showcasing the province's resilience in the face of challenges. Almost 98% of West Java's export commodities are driven by industrial activities, including automotive, machinery, and rattan-based furniture. Governor Bey Triadi Machmudin encouraged the rattan industry in Cirebon to diversify its product range to boost exports. Bey emphasized the importance of continuous growth in the rattan industry to stimulate economic development in Cirebon. He urged the industry to explore new markets, reinforcing rattan as a flagship product for the region. In summary, West Java's strategic shift towards exploring markets in ASEAN and the Middle East for rattan furniture exports reflects a proactive approach to overcome challenges and sustain the province's position as a leading exporter on the national stage.
