MAKASSAR, RAKYAT NEWS – The Indonesian South Sulawesi Province has recently highlighted its impressive economic performance with a remarkable export output across several key sectors.

The provincial government, in partnership with various institutions, has successfully launched initiatives to promote local products on the global stage. This effort has resulted in the export of a diverse range of goods, including cocoa beans, coffee beans, nutmeg, cloves, marine products, and nickel. In total, 27 local products from South Sulawesi have been exported to 23 countries.

The export volume approached 139,000 tons, with the total export value surpassing 67 million US dollars, or approximately 1.28 trillion Indonesian Rupiah.

This achievement underscores South Sulawesi’s substantial contribution to the national economy through its robust export performance.

Additionally, the province has maintained a favorable trade balance, with a trade surplus of 390.86 million US dollars (around 6.4 trillion Indonesian Rupiah) from January to May 2024. This surplus highlights a consistent trend where export values exceed those of imports, positively impacting the local economy.

In May 2024, key export commodities included nickel, iron and steel, mineral fuels, oil seeds, as well as resins, gums, and other plant-based products. Nickel, in particular, dominated the export value, followed by iron and steel.

Luwu Raya, a region within South Sulawesi, presents significant economic potential across various sectors. Agriculture and plantations thrive, producing staple crops such as rice, maize, coffee, and cocoa. The palm oil sector is also expanding, offering prospects for increased production and export opportunities.

Luwu Raya encompassing approximately 22,000 square kilometers. This is roughly comparable in size to the state of New Jersey in the USA, which covers around 22,600 square kilometers.

Budi Kamrul Kasim, economist, advocate and deputy secretary of HIPMI, highlights Luwu Raya’s crucial role in South Sulawesi’s economic future. According to Budi, Luwu Raya’s considerable mining potential, rich in minerals and metals such as nickel and coal.

“It can significantly bolster both local and national economies through sustainable exploration and management,” said the member of Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN)

HIPMI is a leading Indonesian organization dedicated to fostering and empowering young entrepreneurs. Established in 1972, its mission is to support entrepreneurship growth in Indonesia by providing resources, networking opportunities, and training for emerging business leaders.

According to Budi Kamrul, the tourism sector in Luwu Raya also shows promise, with its lakes, waterfalls, and historical sites offering potential for tourism development. With effective promotion and infrastructure enhancement, Luwu Raya could attract both domestic and international tourists, driving economic growth and creating new opportunities for local communities.

Moreover, the fisheries sector holds considerable promise due to abundant marine and river resources. Advancing fisheries infrastructure, including ports and marketing systems.

“It can improve efficiency and profitability, providing additional income sources for local residents,” he added

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Luwu Raya are poised for significant development. Local handicrafts and processed agricultural products have the potential to become flagship commodities. Support in training, capital, and marketing will be vital for local entrepreneurs to enhance their business competitiveness.

South Sulawesi Province continues to showcase strong economic performance through its diverse export products and sustained trade surplus. The provincial government’s strategic initiatives and collaborations with various stakeholders reflect a commitment to strengthening the region’s economic resilience and contributing to Indonesia’s overall economic growth. (Uki Ruknuddin)