The 41st Trade Expo Indonesia Opens with Strong Focus on Exports and Product Competitiveness

Trade Expo Indonesia 2026: Boosting Exports and Competitiveness

On October 14, 2026, the 41st Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI) officially commenced at the Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) in BSD City, Tangerang. Organized by Debindo (PT Debindomulti Adhiswasti) and the Ministry of Trade, this five-day event promises to be a platform for enhancing Indonesia's export capabilities while fortifying the competitiveness of local products in international markets. Under the theme "The Ultimate Hub for Global Sourcing," the expo connects Indonesian businesses with buyers worldwide.

Opening the event on behalf of President Prabowo Subianto, Coordinating Minister for Downstreaming and Energy Transition, Bahlil Lahadalia, emphasized the importance of downstreaming and industrialization. He highlighted these as pivotal strategies for maximizing the value of Indonesia's natural resources and reinforcing economic independence. "Downstreaming is key to increasing the added value of Indonesia's natural resources while strengthening national economic self-reliance," he stated, setting a tone for the importance of innovation and value addition in enhancing Indonesia's export landscape.

As the largest international trade exhibition in the country, the TEI 2026 registered 1,873 exhibitors from 134 countries, with a clear target of attracting around 30,000 visitors and facilitating USD 17.5 billion in potential transactions. Notably, the event aims to sign 168 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between Indonesian exporters and international buyers, including those from 22 different countries, on its opening day. The breadth of products on display ranges from food and beverages, agricultural products, and manufactured goods to fashion, crafts, furniture, home décor, and industrial investments.

Minister of Trade Budi Santoso reiterated the organization's commitment to connecting local businesses with global markets by presenting a diverse range of quality products. "In line with the President's directives, we continue trade negotiations to open export markets. Currently, there are 25 trade agreements in place, with an additional 13 under negotiation," he noted. This reflects a proactive approach to facilitating foreign trade while ensuring that Indonesian products gain traction in international markets.

The strategic pairing of local manufacturers with global buyers underscores the Ministry's priorities, which include Securing the Domestic Market, Expanding Export Markets, and enhancing local products' reach on global platforms. A variety of initiatives cater to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), helping them access international markets through business matching services available via 46 Indonesian trade representative offices across 33 countries. Moreover, programs like Desa BISA Ekspor are focused on developing village products for exports, while retail partnerships are being leveraged to bolster domestic sales.

The Campuspreneur initiative, in collaboration with 25 universities, is also notable as it encourages students to engage in entrepreneurship and pursue export opportunities. Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan identified significant prospects in non-traditional markets, especially across South Asia—encompassing nations like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India—as well as extending outreach to the African market.

During the opening ceremony, awards were presented to outstanding exporters and regional leaders through the Primaniyarta and Primaduta Awards, recognizing both local and international partners. Additionally, a Campuspreneur Award was introduced to acknowledge students achieving remarkable sales during the expo.

In terms of partnerships, TEI 2026 is being supported by industry giants like Pertamina as the Strategic Partner, Bank Mandiri as the Banking Partner, and BPDP as an Event Partner, alongside collaboration from organizations such as Kadin Indonesia and LPEI.

TEI 2026 represents a significant milestone in Indonesia's effort to enhance its market presence and strengthen its position in the global economy as a source of quality goods and innovation. As the trade expo continues through October 18, it embodies the spirit of collaboration and ambition that characterizes Indonesia's growing role in the international marketplace.