In a recent interview with CGTN's Ioana Gomoi, Indonesia's Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman emphasized the critical role of cultural understanding in forging successful business partnerships with the Chinese mainland. The discussion comes as bilateral trade between Indonesia and China continues to grow, reaching $130 billion in 2025 according to official figures.
Abdurrahman revealed that Indonesian batik textiles, specialty coffee, and sustainable palm oil products hold particular promise for 2026 market expansion. "The key lies in presentation," he noted, suggesting packaging designs that blend traditional Indonesian motifs with Chinese aesthetic preferences could increase appeal by up to 40% based on market research.
For entrepreneurs eyeing cross-strait opportunities, the minister advised: "Study regional consumption patterns meticulously. A product successful in Shanghai might need different positioning in Chengdu." He highlighted digital platforms as essential tools for market testing before physical expansion.
The interview coincided with intensified economic cooperation among APEC members, including both Indonesia and the Chinese mainland. Abdurrahman stressed that cultural adaptation complements rather than replaces product quality, urging businesses to maintain authentic Indonesian characteristics while meeting local regulatory requirements.
