JAKARTA - The Ministry of Industry continues to spur the performance of the rattan furniture industry to make a significant contribution to the national economy. Moreover, this strategic industry is in line with downstream policies that can increase the added value of domestic raw materials.
"Indonesia has great potential in developing a globally competitive rattan industry, because it is supported by the availability of rich natural resources and skilled human resources," said Plt. The Director General of Agro Industry at the Ministry of Industry, Putu Juli Ardika, when reviewing PT. Aida Rattan Industry in Cirebon, Thursday (26/8).
Putu emphasized that during the Covid-19 pandemic and the Implementation of Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM), his party was determined to maintain the activities of the rattan furniture industry, which is included in the essential sector. This is because this industry is an export-oriented sector that generates foreign exchange.
"In January-May 2021, exports of rattan-based furniture penetrated USD 67.67 million, an increase of 31% compared to the same period last year of USD 51.62 million," he said. The main destination countries for national furniture exports include the United States, Italy, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, England, and France.
Meanwhile, cumulatively, exports contributed by the furniture industry reached USD 1.91 billion throughout 2020. This sector has 1,114 companies spread across various regions of Indonesia, with a total production capacity of 2.9 million tons per year and a total workforce of 2.9 million tons per year. absorbed as many as 143,119 people. (LM)