Syukriah, Chair of the Minangkabau Rendang Entrepreneurs Association (HIPERMI), announced plans to expand the export market for rendang to various countries worldwide, aiming to increase the international recognition of this traditional dish. "HIPERMI continuously strives to expand its market by collaborating with various partners," Syukriah stated in Padang on Tuesday. Syukriah, who also serves as the Head of the Regional Office of the Directorate General of Treasury in West Sumatra, highlighted the successful cooperation with the Indonesian Export Financing Agency. Recently, West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi signed a memorandum of understanding with the agency's director regarding rendang exports. The Directorate General of Treasury in West Sumatra has also provided free education and training to rendang entrepreneurs to ensure their products meet global market standards.
The economic potential of rendang is substantial, contributing significantly to the local economy. Rendang was recognized as one of the world's best dishes in 2017, and its primary ingredients come from the agricultural sector, making them readily available. Approximately 70% of the Minangkabau population relies on agriculture, including the supply of rendang ingredients. Given the abundant resources and market potential, HIPERMI is optimistic that rendang can become a key export icon for the region. Currently, HIPERMI members and other entrepreneurs have successfully exported rendang to countries like Germany, Norway, and several Middle Eastern nations. Looking ahead, HIPERMI aims to further expand its market reach to additional countries that have not yet been tapped for rendang exports. As of July 2024, Syukriah noted that only about 100 rendang producers are members of HIPERMI, despite the presence of thousands of rendang makers in Minangkabau. In summary, HIPERMI is actively working on securing raw materials and expanding the global market for rendang, ensuring this traditional dish becomes a prominent export product from Minangkabau.
