Streamlined certification and cultural ties pave the way for increased exports
HIITS remain a significant driver of cross-border trade thanks to its partnerships with key government-backed associations and institutions. “We collaborate with associations such as the Indonesian Trade Promotion Centre (ITPC) and more,” said the PT. Wahyu Promo Citra Project Director and HIITS Event Organiser, Satrio Sukur.
These partnerships serve to support Indonesian businesses in accessing global markets, particularly in Australia, which has become a key focus for exporters. This was noted in a HIITS Corner panel session that highlighted Indonesia’s potential for exporting halal products and services to Australia. The session accommodated both in-person and virtual participants, thereby showcasing HIITS’ presence beyond geographical limitations.
Joining the session online, the Indonesian Trade Attache in Canberra Agung Haris Setiawan, pointed out the considerable opportunities available in the Australian halal market. He particularly stressed the adoption of the Indonesian Halal Protocol in the region, which can help streamline exports for Indonesian companies.
Indonesia’s standardised halal certification system, including the Indonesian Halal Protocol, offers an advantage for businesses. This consistency across various markets, from Australia to Saudi Arabia and beyond, simplifies compliance for Indonesian exporters. This is particularly relevant for the Australian market, given the growing influence of Indonesian halal cuisine there.
“Indonesian restaurants are well-known for their halal offerings. We are working closely with the Indonesian Culinary Association of Victoria (ICAV), which represents over 60 Indonesian restaurants in the state,” stated Agung Haris.
ICAV won the Primaduta Award, the highest honour awarded in Indonesia for excellence in supporting local businesses abroad. This award recognises ICAV’s role in supporting and promoting Indonesian food culture and fostering business growth in the Australian market.
Agung Haris also mentioned a culinary competition held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, in collaboration with the Indonesian Chef Association (ICA). He announced: “We will bring the winner to Australia to be showcased and promoted at one of the festivals held in the country.”
Besides market opportunities, Agung Haris highlighted a crucial aspect of international trade, which is adhering to international standards. “All products must have clear labelling with product information and nutritional facts in the appropriate language for the target market: English for Anglophone countries, Indonesian for Indonesia, and Arabic for Saudi Arabia. While minor variations might exist, all sectors must comply with these core requirements,” he explained.
To help businesses navigate the complexities of international trade, Agung Haris highlighted the valuable resources available on the platform: https://tanya-atdag.au/en/market-intelligence/
This platform utilises artificial intelligence (AI) to analyse user queries. In contrast to the broad results typically generated by traditional search engines, the AI delivers responses that are precisely tailored to the user’s needs.
Building connections across markets
UNDER the theme ‘Unlocking opportunities with Malaysian and Egyptian companies,’ the HIITS Corner hosted a business matching programme, enabling businesses to explore shared opportunities in various sectors. Delegates from Egypt and Malaysia showcased their offerings, highlighting their interest in potential collaborations while inviting the interests of other businesses.
“HIITS facilitate the programme to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) connect with global buyers,” added PT. Wahyu Promo Citra Project Director and HIITS Event Organiser Satrio Sukur.
In addition to business presentations, the programme included a networking session. This initiative provided additional opportunities for participants to establish strategic partnerships.
OEM PARTNER
Founded in 2010, Excel Way Worldwide Sdn Bhd has established itself as a leading Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in Malaysia. Apart from manufacturing, Excel Way offers services such as branding, rebranding, labelling, and product design to cater to diverse business needs.
Excel Way’s halal-certified facility meets strict safety standards: “Our factory has been certified by Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP), which is a mandatory requirement in Malaysia. Without this certification, exporting products is possible. We are also certified under the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 22000:2018,” said the Excel Way Worldwide Marketing Director Shafiee Ahmad Abdullah.
The company primarily serves the pharmaceutical sector, supplying a wide range of health-related products. This encompasses detox supplements, vitamin C tablets, and collagen drinks. In addition to health and wellness products, Excel Way also offers functional food and beverages (F&B), with its signature product, Issaline Coffee.
With a growing export presence in Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand, Excel Way demonstrates steady regional growth, making it an ideal partner for businesses seeking to enter and grow within the region.
PREMIUM DATES MARKET
Egyptian companies, like Pyramisr, recognise the potential of the Indonesian halal market, particularly in terms of dates. Representing Pyramisr, Habib Ahmed Elhassany, who is also the director of PT Elhassany International Group, underlined the significance of dates in Indonesian culture, especially during Ramadan.
This predictable seasonal demand presents a recurring and lucrative opportunity for exporters. He spotlighted the company’s focus on premium varieties such as sukkari and medjool dates: “We want to introduce these dates not only to Indonesia but to all of Asia.”
Pyramisr’s innovative offerings, such as its medjool dates infused with Almond flavour, provide a compelling value proposition. While premium products command higher prices, affordability remains a critical factor for Indonesian consumers. Pyramisr demonstrates its understanding of this by offering sukkari dates at a competitive price.
While navigating Indonesia’s import regulations can be challenging, the Indonesian Government actively promotes foreign investment. This makes Indonesia a strategic gateway for premium date exporters looking to expand across Southeast Asia and beyond.
