BNI Brings Three Export-Oriented SMEs into South Korean Market

Jakarta - PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk, through its BNI Xpora programme, has brought three export-oriented small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to enter the South Korean market by participating in the Korea Import Expo 2026. The three SMEs are PT Alko Sumatra Kopi, PT AK Goldenesia, and PT Awan Crackers Food Indonesia, which showcased their flagship products at the Indonesian Pavilion while also participating in business meetings with several South Korean companies. BNI Commercial Banking Director Muhammad Iqbal stated that this participation reflects the company’s commitment to supporting national businesses in entering international markets. According to him, BNI’s support is not only provided through market access but also includes financing, transaction services, business mentoring, and international networks. ‘BNI Xpora is here as a strategic partner for Indonesian businesses looking to expand into international markets. We not only help connect exporters with global buyers but also provide financing support, international transaction solutions, business advisory, and the network access needed to enhance their competitiveness and business sustainability,’ Iqbal said. During the exhibition, the participants took part in business matching sessions with several South Korean companies, including Sajo Foodist, Neple Co., Nokchawon, Hermos Co., Ltd., GS Global, and Hurum Co., Ltd. These meetings were aimed at opening new export transaction opportunities, exploring distribution cooperation, and expanding the penetration of Indonesian products in the South Korean market. The exhibition, organised by the Korea Importers Association (KOIMA), took place at COEX Hall B, Seoul, from 23 to 25 June 2026. The event was attended by around 200 companies from more than 30 countries, with a target of over 10,000 buyers and trade participants. The participation of Indonesian SMEs in the Korea Import Expo 2026 was made possible through synergy between the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Seoul, the Ministry of Trade via the Trade Attaché in Seoul, BNI Seoul Overseas Branch Office, and BNI Xpora. Iqbal noted that market access remains one of the main challenges for Indonesian businesses seeking to expand overseas. These obstacles are not limited to finding buyers but also include product readiness, distribution networks, financing, and understanding of international trade transactions. Therefore, BNI Xpora continues to expand collaboration with the government, Indonesian representatives abroad, business associations, and international partners to connect national exporters with potential buyers in various countries. This support is further strengthened through BNI’s international network, including the BNI Seoul Overseas Branch Office. Through this network, exporters can access international trade transaction services and digital transaction management via BNIdirect. ‘BNI Xpora is designed to help Indonesian businesses upgrade through three main pillars: Go Productive, Go Digital, and Go Global. This support is realised through financing, mentoring, business matching, and access to international markets,’ Iqbal said. He added that BNI’s participation in international exhibitions also embodies the spirit of Swadharma Bhakti Nagara, which has coloured the company’s eight-decade journey. This spirit is realised by strengthening BNI’s role as a partner for business growth and a supporter of national product expansion. Through its participation in the Korea Import Expo 2026, BNI hopes that more Indonesian businesses will gain opportunities to build networks, increase export transactions, and expand product distribution in the global market. This step is also expected to strengthen the competitiveness of SMEs and contribute to export growth and the national economy.