Indonesian Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan inaugurated the export of three containers of footwear, valued at USD 405,000 (IDR 6.5 billion), to the European Union and the United States in Salatiga, Central Java, on Friday. This event underscores the government's commitment to enhancing domestic businesses' export capabilities, supported by proactive trade diplomacy. Zulkifli highlighted that while the government promotes exports, it also implements measures to protect local industries from an influx of imported goods. The exported footwear, branded Nike and produced by PT Selalu Cinta Indonesia (SCI), a member of the Karet Murni Kencana (KMK) Group, reflects a successful public-private partnership in bolstering the export-oriented manufacturing sector.
Indonesia ranks as the world's sixth-largest footwear exporter, with export growth averaging 13.13% over the past five years (2019-2023). PT SCI's expansion into Central Java has created nearly 20,000 jobs and extended its export reach to 57 countries. The European Union remains a primary market for Indonesian footwear, with exports totaling USD 698.91 million from January to May 2024. The United States is also a key destination, with exports valued at USD 914.76 million in the same period, marking a 19.43% increase from 2023. The global footwear market shows promising growth prospects, with an estimated annual revenue growth rate of 3.43% projected from 2024 to 2028, and annual revenues expected to reach USD 412 billion in 2024. This outlook underscores the significant opportunities for Indonesian footwear in the international market.
