Reliable Logistics Systems Ease SMEs' Path to Export Markets

Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs) are seen as having a growing opportunity to expand their export markets amid increasing global trade connectivity. However, beyond production capacity, access to international distribution networks and reliable logistics services is a crucial factor for SMEs to compete in the global market. With a contribution of more than 60% to the national economy, SMEs are viewed as having significant potential to become a growth engine for Indonesian exports. This momentum is increasingly open as national economic growth reached 5.11% in 2025. VP Commercial of DHL Express Indonesia, Poppy Ariani, stated that demand from international markets continues to rise, opening wider opportunities for domestic businesses. “Global demand exists and continues to grow. The key now is access—fast, consistent, and competitive,” Poppy said in a statement on Wednesday (1/7). According to her, the role of logistics is no longer merely operational support but has become an important part of a company’s business strategy. This condition is evident from the changing shipping patterns of SMEs, which are now increasingly sending goods in large volumes and high value. Senior Technical Advisor of DHL Express Indonesia, Ahmad Mohamad, assessed that this trend reflects the growing scale of Indonesian businesses in the international market. “We are seeing a clear shift. From small-scale shipments to large volumes. This shows that Indonesian businesses are not only entering the global market but are beginning to grow within it,” said Ahmad. He noted that one of the challenges still faced by business actors is limited access to logistics solutions capable of keeping pace with their business growth. “The advantage is no longer about who started first, but who can grow faster and more consistently. Reliability is the differentiator,” Ahmad explained. According to him, the need for flexible logistics services is also increasing, especially for large-volume cargo shipments. “The need for heavy cargo shipments continues to rise along with business expansion into the global market. This reflects the readiness of Indonesian business actors to compete at a higher level,” he added. Observing these developments, DHL Express Indonesia mentioned that around 40% of its customers come from the SME segment. This figure shows the growing interest of small business actors in reaching international markets. Through its global network, the company provides express delivery services and integrated logistics solutions, ranging from small packages to cargo shipments. One of the services offered is Heavy Weight Express, which can handle air shipments of up to 1,000 kilograms per piece and 3,000 kilograms in a single shipment. In addition, DHL Express also runs the GoTrade programme, an initiative designed to help SMEs expand access while increasing competitiveness in the global market. “Our focus is not just transactions, but building the capability of SMEs so they can grow consistently in the global market,” Ahmad concluded.