Indonesia Drives Digital SME Transformation at APEC SMEWG Meeting 2026

Special Advisor for Legal and Public Policy Affairs at the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Reghi Perdana, accompanied by Special Staff to the Minister, Triana Krisandini Tandjung, and Junior Expert in Cooperation Analysis, Rosyana Dewi, attended the 61st APEC Small and Medium Enterprises Working Group Meeting (SMEWGM) held from 21 to 22 May 2026 at Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam in South Korea. “We represented Indonesia alongside APEC members to discuss various strategies for leveraging technology to help SMEs penetrate global markets. I am confident Indonesia can implement these innovations,” he said. The forum, attended by delegations from 21 APEC members, discussed strengthening SME capabilities amid global economic dynamics, global supply chain restructuring, and technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). The meeting also highlighted the implementation of the SMEWG Strategic Plan 2025-2028, which includes five key priorities: strengthening startup ecosystems, growth through financing access, expanding international market access, digital transformation, and a green transition based on bio-circular-green economy. According to APEC data, over 97% of businesses in the Asia-Pacific region are SMEs. The sector also employs the largest number of workers and contributes approximately half of the private sector’s total output in the region. Reghi stated that this potential must be addressed by national SME entrepreneurs through digital infrastructure such as e-commerce platforms, cross-border payment systems, and AI-powered market intelligence to compete in global supply chains. “Thanks to Indonesia’s technological advancements and the capabilities of SMEs, I am confident we can deliver positive outcomes,” he added. To support digitalisation efforts, the Ministry of MSMEs has introduced SAPA UMKM, a single data platform integrating various business empowerment services. In the same forum, Special Staff to the Minister of MSMEs, Triana Krisandini Tandjung, noted that the ministry’s delegation presence at the 61st APEC SMEWGM demonstrates Indonesia’s active commitment to championing national SME interests on the global stage. “The Ministry of MSMEs participates in APEC forums to align national policies with the Asia-Pacific region’s strategic vision to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” Triana said. Delegates also discussed preparations for the 32nd APEC SME Ministerial Meeting, scheduled for 4 September 2026 in Guangzhou, China. The ministerial meeting will focus on strengthening SME innovation, expanding market access, and enhancing regional economic resilience. Under the theme “Innovation Drives Progress, Partnership Delivers Prosperity”, the meeting will address three key priorities: scientific and technological innovation, digital and intelligent empowerment, and inclusive development. “The Ministry of MSMEs’ participation as part of Indonesia’s delegation at the 61st APEC SMEWGM is part of efforts to strengthen the position of national SMEs in global markets while aligning national policies with the Asia-Pacific region’s strategic vision,” Triana added.