The United States has exported soybeans worth USD 1 billion, equivalent to IDR 16.2 trillion (as of June 8, 2024), to Indonesia, making soybeans the largest US export commodity to the country. This export significantly impacts the production of tofu and tempeh in Indonesia, which predominantly uses US soybeans. This information was shared by Rey Santella, Agricultural Counselor of the US Embassy and representative of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), during the USDA Travel Show 2024 at the Yogyakarta Marriott Hotel on June 6. "The largest US export to Indonesia is soybeans, used by Indonesians to produce tempeh and tofu, valued at nearly USD 1 billion. Most tempeh artisans in Indonesia use these US soybeans and now export their products worldwide, including back to the US," said Rey in an interview with Pandangan Jogja. Data from the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) indicates that in 2023, the US exported 1.94 million tons of soybeans to Indonesia, valued at USD 1.26 billion.
In addition to soybeans, Rey highlighted that various other US products are exported to Indonesia, with a total value reaching USD 3 billion. Conversely, Indonesia also exports products to the US, facilitating a beneficial exchange of goods. "We export various food products to Indonesia, including meat, fish, corn, and soybeans, with a total value of nearly USD 3 billion. Indonesia exports to the US around USD 7 to 8 billion, mainly coconut oil, coffee, and shrimp. This mutual exchange benefits consumers in both countries," Rey added. The USDA Travel Show 2024 aims to introduce US products to Indonesian consumers, featuring items such as beef, salmon, raisins, and cream cheese. The event includes cooking demonstrations, product exhibitions, and food tastings. Rey explained that Yogyakarta was chosen as this year's host due to public demand for events beyond Jakarta and Bali. "Our goal is to promote US agricultural products and give consumers in Yogyakarta a chance to experience them," he said.
