Seizing Export Opportunities and Breaking into Global Markets

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Finding buyers overseas is no easy task for businesses just starting out in exports. Alongside offering quality products, business owners need to understand the characteristics of their target markets, maintain consistent production and build trust with prospective buyers.

Thio Siujinata, owner of craft business Craftote, experienced this first-hand. She first became acquainted with export markets through Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI) in 2023. Having initially known little about the mechanics of international trade, she has since shipped products to Canada seven times, following her first export in 2024.

For Thio, TEI is not merely a place to showcase products, but also a gateway to learning and business development. Through facilities provided by the Ministry of Trade, she gained access to prospective overseas buyers and the opportunity to take part in design mentoring to improve her products’ competitiveness.

Craftote’s journey shows how market access and capacity-building support can help local businesses move towards exporting. For companies already experienced in international trade, meanwhile, TEI provides an opportunity to reach new buyers and markets.

Starting from scratch