The Ministry of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises (Kemenkop UMKM) highlights the significant contribution of durian exports from Parigi Moutong Regency, Central Sulawesi, in enhancing the local economy. Hanung Harimba Rachman, Deputy for SMEs at Kemenkop UMKM, expressed positive responses to the export activities, emphasizing that not every region can accomplish such endeavors. The ministry has collaborated with the Indonesian Durian Plantation Association (Apdurin), the Central Sulawesi Provincial Government, and the Parigi Moutong Regency Government to develop durian export activities to Thailand. This initiative aligns with the government's policies focusing on downstreaming based on SMEs, fostering partnerships, and encouraging exports. The collaboration involves four companies, and partnerships with medium and large enterprises aim to enhance the capacity and competitiveness of durian entrepreneurs. The partnerships cover aspects such as the supply of raw materials, marketing, technology development, and the construction of the supply chain production ecosystem.
Hanung commended this collaborative model between Apdurin, the government, and businesses, emphasizing the need for large companies to partner with SMEs to drive exports. He highlighted the global growth prospects for durian, estimating a 7.1% increase in demand from 2020 to 2026. This presents a significant opportunity for Indonesia to boost durian exports, and Parigi Moutong Regency is considered an ideal location for the commodity's growth from an agronomic perspective. Hanung stated, "Durian is a good idea because there is a high demand for it. Agronomically, Parigi Moutong Regency is the most ideal place for the growth of this commodity." The export initiative, led by Apdurin, signifies a positive collaboration between the public and private sectors, showcasing a successful model for encouraging exports and economic growth through durian production in the region.
