Amid a government-enforced ban on imported secondhand clothing, Indonesia is taking steps to support local thrift traders and protect domestic producers. President Prabowo Subianto has directed the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to develop alternative products for thrift businesses, ensuring their continued operation while safeguarding local producers. The initiative reflects a broader push for economic sovereignty and MSME empowerment, signaling a shift toward sustainable, locally driven fashion markets.
The MSME Minister, Maman Abdurrahman, emphasizes the quality, design, and price competitiveness of many domestic goods, particularly those produced by MSMEs in creative hubs like Bandung. He encourages thrift vendors to sell local products, highlighting the availability of excellent domestic alternatives. The government aims to find a balanced solution that sustains local textile production without harming micro-businesses.
Abdurrahman challenges the assumption that secondhand clothing is always cheaper, noting that prices are often unregulated and set by vendors. He assures that the government will protect domestic MSME producers while also allowing thrifting traders to continue their businesses. This initiative is part of a larger effort to promote sustainable and locally sourced fashion, reducing reliance on imports and supporting the domestic textile industry.
