Indonesia promotes traditional textiles and modest fashion to boost economy

Indonesian officials are highlighting the economic potential of traditional textiles and modest fashion to boost the creative economy and tourism.

Minister of Industry Muhammad Sarmuji reported that ikat weaving exports reached US$88,000 in 2025, with a significant increase in the first half of 2026, rising to US$34,000 from US$13,600 in the same period the previous year. Sarmuji is encouraging the development of Ulos fabric—a traditional Batak textile—to enter modern markets through product innovation, such as ready-to-wear clothing and home decor.

Simultaneously, Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana noted that Indonesia's rich textile heritage, including batik and weaving, is driving the growth of the modest fashion sector. She emphasized that fashion serves as a key driver for shopping tourism, encouraging visitors to engage with local artisans. Citing the Global Islamic Economy Report 2024-2025, Wardhana pointed to the massive global potential of the modest fashion market, which is projected to reach US$433 billion by 2028.