Jakarta Candle, an Indonesian SME, has successfully introduced its uniquely scented cinnamon wood spice candles to the international market. Yulianah, the entrepreneur behind the product, has achieved an annual revenue of IDR 700 million. With support from the Indonesian Eximbank, Yulianah has received guidance since 2018, facilitating her participation in expos and attracting international interest. Established in 2011, Jakarta Candle offers candles infused with Indonesian scents such as cinnamon wood spice, cloves, coffee, and batik motifs. Customizable to customers' preferences, prices range from IDR 26,000 to IDR 300,000. Despite starting with IDR 5 million and producing 50-100 decorative candles, Yulianah has sustained her business for 13 years. Now expanding into organic candles made from palm waste and beeswax, her business has grown significantly, with exports reaching approximately 20% of total production, notably beeswax candles.
Initially exporting only 50-100 candles with modest revenue of USD 50-100, Yulianah's exports have now contributed to an annual revenue of IDR 700 million. Clients from various countries, mainly Singapore and Australia, have shown interest, utilizing her products for events worldwide, including in France and potentially the Netherlands. Expressing gratitude to the Indonesian Eximbank for guidance, Yulianah, despite self-funding her venture, benefited from training programs, export support, and digital marketing assistance. Her participation in the Trade Expo Indonesia in October 2018 yielded positive interactions with enthusiastic buyers, highlighting the impact of such initiatives on her business's growth and international presence.
