Plered ceramics from Purwakarta, Indonesia, have made significant inroads into international markets this year, exporting thousands of ceramics to the United States and various European countries. In 2024, a total of 11 containers filled with various types of ceramics have been exported, a notable increase from the previous year’s five containers valued at IDR 1.75 billion. “The international market demand for Plered ceramics is substantial, presenting a valuable opportunity that we must optimize,” stated Dani Abdurahman, Acting Head of the Purwakarta Cooperative, SMEs, Industry, and Trade Office (DKUPP) on 24 June 2024. Dani noted that this year’s export volume far exceeds that of 2023, with a more than 100% increase in container shipments. This achievement was commended by Minister of Trade Zulkifli Hasan during his visit to Purwakarta on 21 June 2024. Accompanied by Purwakarta's Acting Regent Benni Irwan, Zulkifli emphasized the Ministry of Trade's full support for domestic ceramic production. This support was evidenced by the seizure of 4.5 million Chinese ceramics lacking the necessary certification and registration, which posed a threat to the local industry. “These ceramics will be destroyed to protect our domestic ceramic industry,” Zulkifli asserted.
Plered ceramics are also highly popular in the domestic market, with significant demand from major cities across Java and beyond. In 2023, national demand reached 112,000 ceramics, valued at IDR 2.8 billion. Dani highlighted the substantial market potential and the ongoing efforts to strengthen the Plered ceramic industry to meet increasing demand. Purwakarta's Head of Communication and Information Office, Rudi Hartono, reported that the success of Plered ceramics in international markets has garnered praise from Acting Regent Benni Irwan, who encouraged further growth to boost the regional economy and improve local welfare. According to DKUPP Purwakarta, there are 147 ceramic craft businesses employing 511 artisans in Plered. The industry dates back to the early 1900s and gained international recognition during the 1963 GANEFO event in Jakarta. Plered ceramics are categorized into three types: traditional ceramics (jars, pots, and utensils), decorative and functional ceramics (vases, coin banks), and construction ceramics (roof tiles, ventilation blocks). This international success of Plered ceramics marks a significant milestone, reflecting both the rich heritage and the promising future of Purwakarta’s ceramic industry.
