The Directorate General of Treasury (DJPb) of the Ministry of Finance for West Sumatra Province has highlighted the significant positive impact of rendang spice exports on the agricultural and livestock sectors. Budi Lesmana, Acting Head of the DJPb Regional Office, emphasized that the primary ingredients for rendang spices, such as beef, red chili peppers, coconut milk, cinnamon, shallots, and turmeric, are sourced locally. The increasing demand for rendang spices directly boosts the need for these raw materials, thereby improving the welfare of farmers and livestock breeders. Budi pointed out the notable rise in demand, with an instance of an SME from West Sumatra exporting one ton of rendang spices to Europe. Regular exports also occur to Middle Eastern countries, although challenges like price differences and licensing issues remain obstacles for maximizing these exports. The higher cost of fresh meat abroad leads buyers to prefer importing spices rather than ready-to-eat rendang.
Syukriah, Chairperson of the Minangkabau Rendang Entrepreneurs Association (Hipermi), noted that rendang culinary businesses are prepared to meet international demand, including specific requests from Saudi Arabia. Hipermi is ready to fulfill an export demand of 15 tons of rendang spices. However, entrepreneurs, especially those under Hipermi, still face difficulties penetrating global markets. Syukriah cited an example of rendang spice exports to Germany that ceased in 2024 due to significant price differences. Hipermi hopes the local government will continue to seek solutions for marketing rendang internationally, addressing the challenges faced by SMEs to boost their export capacity and expand their reach in the global market.
