The Association of Indonesian Exporters (GPEI) in East Java aims to enable 100 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the region to export their products internationally by 2025. This goal was articulated by GPEI East Java Chairman, Is Darmawan Asrikan, during the Business Gathering event titled "Opportunities and Challenges for East Java's Export Enhancement" in Surabaya on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. The initiative to support MSMEs in exporting has been ongoing for several years. GPEI has set the target of establishing market access for 100 MSMEs abroad. Currently, around 15% of this target has been achieved, primarily in the food and beverage sector, as well as handicrafts. The main export markets for East Java's MSMEs are still in Asia due to lower transportation costs. However, GPEI sees potential in European and American markets, which also show high interest in Indonesian MSME products. To expand market opportunities, GPEI plans to collaborate with the Indonesian diaspora and overseas Indonesian workers (PMI). These groups can assist in marketing MSME products in the countries where they reside.

Is acknowledged various challenges faced by MSMEs in exporting, including external factors like geopolitical conditions, such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Israeli-Palestinian conflicts, which may disrupt shipping and increase logistic costs. However, he remains optimistic about East Java's export performance, evident from significant export growth in the first three months of 2024. Support from the banking sector is crucial in boosting MSME exports. Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) is one such institution providing financing for MSME exports. BSI recognizes the substantial export potential of East Java and stands ready to offer services and financing to business owners to facilitate exports. In 2023, BSI disbursed over IDR 1.5 trillion for exports nationwide. For 2024, BSI targets a 25% increase in export financing. East Java is identified as a province with significant potential for BSI's export financing. With support from various stakeholders, GPEI is confident in achieving the target of 100 exporting MSMEs by 2025. This endeavor will elevate the status of MSMEs and create broader market opportunities for their products.

Source: https://beritajatim.com/gpei-jawa-timur-targetkan-100-umkm-bisa-ekspor-di-tahun-2025