Indonesian Tempe Breaks into Chilean Market Through IC-CEPA
Indonesian Tempe Breaks into Chilean Market Through IC-CEPA
03 Apr 2026 12:30 WIB
Voice of Indonesia
Key Points
Indonesian tempe enters Chile’s market through IC-CEPA, marking a milestone in expanding non-traditional exports.
Chile seen as a strategic hub for plant-based foods, opening access to broader Latin American markets.
RRI.CO.ID, Santiago - The Ministry of Trade has confirmed the successful export of Indonesian tempe to Chile, marking a milestone in the country’s efforts to expand non-traditional markets. The cooperation, valued at IDR 2.1 billion, was facilitated under the Indonesia-Chile Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IC-CEPA).
Director General of National Export Development, Fajarini Puntodewi, said the initiative demonstrates how IC-CEPA can be optimized to strengthen Indonesia’s global competitiveness.
“This tempe export to Chile exemplifies the benefits of IC-CEPA. The Ministry will continue to support Indonesian businesses in reaching wider international markets,” Puntodewi stated in Jakarta on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
Head of the Indonesia Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) Santiago, Indah Fajarwati Bachter, explained that the initial phase of cooperation will focus on building strong local distributor networks. She described Chile as a strategic entry point for plant-based food products.
“In the medium term, this partnership could expand to other Latin American countries. We hope tempe will be recognized as a leading plant-based food across the region,” Indah said.
Indonesian Ambassador to Chile, Vedi Kurnia Buana, emphasized the importance of government-business collaboration in advancing economic diplomacy. He noted Chile’s role as a hub for Latin America, which can ease access for Indonesian products.
“This cooperation reflects stronger synergy between government and entrepreneurs. Chile’s strategic position makes initiatives like this vital to broaden Indonesia’s reach in Latin America,” Vedi remarked.
PT Azaki Food International Director, Cucup Ruhiyat, expressed appreciation for government support, particularly through ITPC Santiago’s facilitation of pitching sessions, exhibitions, and business matching. He reported that the contract value with Chilean distributors reached USD 125,000.
“We are optimistic that tempe will gain wider recognition and acceptance in Latin America,” Cucup said.
Director of Primary Product Export Development, Miftah Farid, encouraged Indonesian entrepreneurs to explore similar opportunities. He highlighted Chile’s growing demand for plant-based protein as a promising market for other local products.
Bojan Urbancic, Director of OM SpA, pledged full commitment to developing the market for healthy fermented foods in Chile. He sees tempe as a high-quality protein alternative for daily nutrition.
“This partnership allows us to introduce tempe as a nutritious fermented food to Chilean consumers,” Bojan noted, adding that demand for plant-based products is rising alongside healthy lifestyle trends.
Chile imports food worth USD 8 billion annually, underscoring the scale of opportunity for Indonesian exports.
Government data shows total trade between Indonesia and Chile reached USD 535.5 million last year, with Indonesia recording a surplus of USD 347.5 million. The surplus was driven by strengthened exports of key national commodities. (Diva Rifdah/Sri Wahyuni)
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