Ministry of Trade Connects 31 Green Economy Businesses with Japanese Buyers
The Ministry of Trade facilitated 31 Indonesian green economy businesses in exploring business opportunities with potential buyers from Japan. The event, titled “Business Matching Sessions Indonesia-Japan”, was held in Jakarta on Wednesday (13/5/2026), as part of the ASEAN-Japan Centre’s participation in “The 2nd Indonesia-Japan Environment Week 2026”, which took place from 11–12 May 2026 in Jakarta.
Through collaboration with the ASEAN-Japan Centre, the Directorate General of National Export Development of the Ministry of Trade facilitated Indonesian businesses and associations from various strategic sub-sectors, including recycled products, eco-friendly goods, energy from waste or waste-to-energy, recycled raw materials, and environmental management services. The involvement of these businesses reflects the growing ecosystem of Indonesia’s green industry to synergise with global standards.
Fajarini Puntodewi, Director General of National Export Development of the Ministry of Trade, who is also the Council Director of the ASEAN-Japan Centre for Indonesia, stated that this business matching is a tactical step to capitalise on the momentum of the Japanese delegation’s visit, which brings strengths in the circular economy. This forum represents a concrete effort by the Indonesian government to promote business partnerships, investments, and increased exports to Japan.
The business matching was also aimed at expanding export market access for the green economy sector, in line with the growing global demand for sustainable products.
“Through facilitations like this, Indonesia can strengthen its position in the global supply chain based on sustainability. We are optimistic that through this collaboration, Indonesian businesses will gain greater opportunities to become part of the world’s green product supply chain, which in turn will have a real impact on sustainable economic growth,” said Puntodewi.
Meanwhile, Sugih Rahmansyah, Secretary of the Directorate General of National Export Development of the Ministry of Trade, stated that the business matching was specifically designed to connect local innovations with Japan’s high-technology needs. This opportunity is expected to open up deeper cooperation horizons in the circular economy sector, which has long-term economic prospects.
“This business matching serves as a concrete bridge for Indonesian businesses to connect with Japanese partners, particularly in the green economy sector with great prospects. We encourage this meeting to result in real collaborations, whether in the form of investments, trade, or technology transfers,” said Sugih.
Sugih assessed that collaboration with Japan is strategic because industries in the Land of the Rising Sun have advantages in advanced technology, efficiency, and a strong commitment to sustainability and circular economy practices.
On the other hand, Indonesia demonstrates a strong commitment to developing the green economy and energy transition, while possessing significant potential and high growth opportunities.
“Through this collaboration, we hope for technology transfers from Japan to Indonesia. We expect follow-ups in waste-to-energy management, urban waste management systems, and sustainable industrial practices. This will also strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesian export products that are value-added and environmentally friendly,” added Sugih.
Elisabeth, representative of PT Rafandra Eternal Nusantara, said her participation in this event opens new opportunities for the company to develop markets for environmentally friendly products in Japan.
Her company produces crafts from gambas seedling waste or luffa, processed into natural sponges as an alternative to plastic sponges. The product has penetrated export markets such as South Korea, Italy, and several regions in the United States through digital platforms.
“Direct meetings with potential Japanese partners provide added value compared to previous forums that were generally conducted online. Several Japanese companies showed interest, particularly for research and development needs,” said Elisabeth.
She assessed that the Ministry of Trade’s facilitation, including through the 2026 Export Coaching Programme (ECP) in East Java, is very helpful in enhancing business capacities. She hopes the Ministry of Trade can continue to expand the scope of business matching to more countries to promote exports of Indonesian environmentally friendly products with significant market potential.
Meanwhile, Veran, Chief Financial Officer of Parongpong Raw Lab, stated that this forum opens new collaboration opportunities for his company. Parongpong Raw Lab focuses on processing residual waste that has previously been underutilised.
The company processes various types of waste, including discarded fishing nets, into value-added products such as furniture. Residual waste can also be used as multifunctional building materials to craft products like jewellery.
“Participation in this forum facilitated by the Ministry of Trade opens collaboration opportunities with Japanese partners who have a high focus on environmental issues, especially marine ones. We were impressed by the presence of various Japanese companies and the positive responses to the products we offered,” said Veran.