Bobby Nasution Encourages North Sumatra MSMEs to Expand Markets via East Java Trade Mission
Medan, VIVA – The Governor of North Sumatra, Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasund, is pushing for the strengthening of inter-regional trade cooperation as a strategic step to face global economic challenges. According to him, domestic economic potential, particularly within the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, must be prioritised to bolster regional economies.
Bobby Nasution expressed this during his attendance at the East Java (Jatim)-North Sumatra Trade and Investment Mission, themed “Enhancing Connectivity Networks between East Java and North Sumatra,” held at the Grand Mercure Hotel Ballroom on Tuesday (29/09/2026). The event was attended by East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa and dozens of business actors from both provinces.
Bobby Nasution expressed his appreciation for Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa’s attention towards North Sumatra. Previously, Khofifah visited North Sumatra to provide aid during the hydrometeorological disasters that struck several areas of the province in November 2025.
“Welcome back, Governor of East Java, Mrs. Khofifah Indar Parawansa. Previously, you arrived here bringing aid and compassion for North Sumatra affected by disasters. But this time, you arrive bringing traders, which is an extraordinary breakthrough that uplifts the community’s economy,” said Bobby Nasution.
According to Bobby, trade missions that result in inter-regional trade cooperation are an anticipatory measure in facing the ongoing pressures of the global economy. He noted that these conditions also present challenges in efforts to attract foreign investment.
“This presents a unique challenge for us. Therefore, the sector with great potential today is the MSME sector. Consequently, North Sumatra is attempting to shift its approach towards MSME players,” stated Bobby Nasution.
To this end, Bobby Nasution is encouraging that trade and investment missions do not stop at trade transactions but continue towards broader business cooperation. Through this, MSME products from both North Sumatra and East Java are expected to expand their markets to a national level.
“The Head of the Department (Trade, Industry, and Energy) reported that as of 10:00 AM WIB, transaction figures have reached Rp2.288 trillion. So, if I am still speaking and the crowd behind me is still active, transactions could increase. However, this remains a challenge for North Sumatra: how to curate and ensure the standard fulfilment of MSME players,” explained Bobby Nasution, who will lead a trade and investment mission from North Sumatra to East Java in the near future.