The Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin) is actively pushing small and medium industries (IKM) to scale up and enter global markets by leveraging Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage to strengthen the competitiveness of its creative industries. With over 16 million creative economy actors, and crafts and fashion as top export contributors, Kemenperin supports IKM through programs like international exhibitions, product standardization, and machinery restructuring—offering 25–40% reimbursement for new equipment to boost productivity and quality.
A standout success is Sweda, a silver craftsman from Yogyakarta, which blends Indonesian cultural philosophy with American pop culture. With 90% of its products exported to the U.S., Sweda has gained recognition in hip-hop and lowrider communities and will represent Indonesia at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival 2025. This story highlights the global appeal of culturally rooted products and serves as inspiration for other IKMs, with government support continuing to help more players reach international markets.
