INACRAFT raises technology as a driver of handicraft industry transformation
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Jakarta International Handicraft Trade Fair (INACRAFT) 2026, the largest handicraft exhibition in Southeast Asia, is adopting the theme Technocraft, making technology a driver of transformation in the craft industry.
The exhibition will be held at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC) from 7 to 11 October 2026.
“Technology is not meant to replace the hands of artisans, but to serve as a tool to boost productivity without abandoning the value of their works,” said Muchsin Ridjan, Chairman of the Indonesian Handicraft Exporters and Producers Association (ASEPHI), in Jakarta on Tuesday.
He said INACRAFT 2026 raises technology as one of the drivers of transformation in the craft industry.
According to Muchsin, technological development is no longer limited to the production process, but has entered various industry chains, from material and design development to marketing, digital trade, and access to international markets.
“Youthpreneurs are encouraged to utilise technology to develop craft products that are innovative, efficient, value-added, and still retain Indonesian cultural identity,” said Muchsin.
He said technology must be positioned as an instrument to strengthen the capabilities of artisans and businesses, not to replace human creativity and skills.
The Technocraft concept encompasses the use of technology in material development, production processes, design, marketing, and product innovation. With this approach, technology is expected to go hand in hand with the wealth of traditions and local wisdom.
Meanwhile, INACRAFT 2026 Project Officer Syamsul Huda said the Technocraft theme is a response to technological developments that increasingly influence the national craft industry.
The application of technology will be introduced through various approaches, including the use of palm oil waste as batik wax material, modernisation of the weaving process, and the development of ceramics and wood processing.
These innovations are directed at improving efficiency and added value without eliminating traditional character and skills.
Syamsul viewed the collaboration as part of efforts to bring together the needs of industry players with research capacity, technology, and human resource development.
Various issues, including new materials, natural dyes, production technology, waste utilisation, design, and product development, will be part of the agenda of the INACRAFT 2026 insight programme.
The exhibition is organised by the Indonesian Handicraft Exporters and Producers Association (ASEPHI) together with Mediatama Event as the event organiser, with Bank Mandiri as the main sponsor.
Furthermore, Syamsul said the collaboration brings together businesses, associations, banking, government, research institutions, academics, as well as technology and digital trade partners to strengthen the national craft industry ecosystem.
INACRAFT 2026 will be joined by around 900 participants, comprising businesses from various regions, regional governments, state-owned enterprises (BUMN), and supporting partners of the craft industry.
The exhibition will also serve as a meeting space between businesses and buyers, distributors, business partners, communities, and other stakeholders. These business meetings are expected not to stop at transactions, but to develop into cooperation, distribution networks, and access to new markets.