Tuesday, 16 June 2026
TEBINGTINGGI | INDATANEWS.COM ~ Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso officially approved the export of 9 tons of Kepok Keling bananas to Malaysia on Friday, February 27, 2026, valued at approximately IDR 270 million.
This initiative highlights the ministry's commitment to promoting North Sumatran small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through the "SMEs Can Export" program, opening doors to international markets.Business Matching Strengthens SMEs
Minister Budi explained that the program facilitates business connections between SMEs and potential foreign buyers."Daily business-matching activities allow SMEs to showcase their products and find suitable buyers. So far, 1,200 SMEs have secured deals worth USD 134.8 million. Almost 70% of these businesses had never exported before," Budi Santoso said.
He emphasized that the program not only expands market access but also boosts economic activity, enabling SMEs to compete both domestically and internationally. Minister Budi also urged regional administrations to support the initiative to strengthen local economies.
North Sumatra's Agricultural Potential
North Sumatra's Deputy Governor Surya highlighted that the banana export is a symbolic testament to the competitiveness of the region's agricultural products in global markets."While it may seem like a single shipment, it sends a strong signal: North Sumatra's agricultural products can compete internationally. Exporting is not just shipping goods; it ensures quality, production continuity, standards, and trust from trade partners," Surya explained.
He stressed the importance of agricultural value addition, allowing businesses to sell processed products with higher economic value. This strategy is crucial to improving both competitiveness and farmers' welfare. In 2025, North Sumatra's exports grew significantly, reaching over USD 12.3 billion—a 14% increase from the previous year—thanks to farmers' dedication, entrepreneurial initiatives, and targeted government support.
Local Products from Tebingtinggi Ready for the World Market
Tebingtinggi Mayor Iman Irdian Saragih stated that the export approval is more than symbolic; it demonstrates that the city's local products can reach international markets. The support from the Trade Ministry provides the local administration with new momentum to enhance product quality, expand market access, and strengthen competitiveness."We believe that synergy in strengthening the processed food sector, especially banana chips exports, encourages close collaboration between the central government, province, and city. This creates a modern and sustainable trade ecosystem," Irdian emphasized. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Edi Saputra
