Amman:Jordan is poised to explore new export opportunities in Indonesia as a market-entry study reveals significant potential, particularly in the export of dates, chocolate, biscuits, tahini, and sesame products. The study indicates that Indonesian imports across seven priority export categories reached $359.4 million in 2024, suggesting room for Jordan to increase its export footprint.
According to Jordan News Agency, the study was prepared by Export House in partnership with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply. It highlights Jordan's existing export capabilities, noting that the country has exported $71.9 million in dates, $48.2 million in chocolate and biscuits, and $36.1 million in tahini and sesame products to global markets. Jordanian Medjool dates, in particular, present a notable opportunity, as Indonesia imported $79.7 million worth of dates in 2024, whereas Jordan's exports to Indonesia were just $57,200, a decrease from $206,600 in 2023.
The study suggests focusing on premium Jordanian Medjool dates, emphasizing their origin and quality, and targeting specialized importers. It advises completing certification and registration requirements before shipping and ensuring products are available in retail outlets four to five months prior to the Ramadan season.
In addition to dates, there is potential for growth in other categories. Indonesia imported $114.7 million worth of chocolate and biscuits in 2024, and $21.4 million in tahini and sesame products, representing increases of 8.9% and 15.6%, respectively. Imports of sauces, spices, and food preparations also grew by 12.8%, totaling $105.4 million.
Despite the opportunities, Jordan's overall presence in Indonesia's food and agricultural market remains limited, with imports from Jordan in these categories at less than $960,000 in 2024, compared to Indonesia's total food and agricultural imports of $28.4 billion.
The study emphasizes the importance of meeting certification and registration requirements, including halal certification, which is crucial for entering the Indonesian market. It recommends a phased approach with the selection of specialized importers, completion of necessary certifications, and initiating trial shipments within the first six months.
Additionally, the study advises on forming partnerships for pharmaceuticals, suggesting licensing agreements and contract manufacturing with local companies, as Indonesia imported $580.7 million worth of medicines in the examined category.
Concluding, the study asserts that expanding Jordanian exports to Indonesia will rely on thorough certification and registration processes, partnerships with local importers, and focusing on products where Jordan already has an established export base. These steps could help transform market demand into concrete export contracts.