The Indonesian government’s efforts to curtail the imports of illegally imported garments have begun to have a positive impact on the local apparel industry and given it a lifeline.
The Indonesian Fashion Designers and Entrepreneurs Association said it has recorded a significant increase in orders of its members since early April 2026.
Chairman of the association, Nandi Herdiaman stated that the increase in demand occurred after the government tightened its oversight of illegal imports and trading activities through online sellers.
He noted that the reduction in the circulation of cheap imported clothing that previously flooded the domestic market has opened up more space for local products to compete.
The association has recorded an increase in orders in the range of 20-30% received by garment manufacturers.
This increase came from various market segments like local brands, wholesalers and retailers who are again relying on domestic production to meet consumer needs.
Nandi believes this demonstrates that small and medium-sized garment industries still possess strong competitiveness if the market operates healthily and is free from detrimental trade practices.
He believes consumers are also starting to purchase local products due to the more competitive prices offered.
The increase in orders in recent months has also begun to have a positive impact on the employment sector.
Several association members have reemployed sewing and packaging workers to meet increased production needs.
The association expects the garment manufacturing to create 100,000 job opportunities by 2027 if monitoring of illegal imports continues.
“This 100,000 employment target demonstrates the significant potential for growth in the domestic textile industry when market competition is fair and controlled,” Nandi added.
Image courtesy: Immago
