JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS— In a surprising turn of events, Indonesian products are gaining popularity in Israel, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries.

This development highlights the complexities of global trade, where economic interests often transcend political and ideological barriers. The growing demand for Indonesian goods in Israel suggests that, even in challenging political climates, commerce can serve as a bridge between nations.

The success of Indonesian exports to Israel also reflects the increasing competitiveness and appeal of Indonesia’s diverse range of products. As the nation continues to position itself as a key player in global trade, its ability to penetrate even the most unexpected markets demonstrates the strength and adaptability of its industries.

Indonesia continues to record exports to Israel, with a notable increase in export value reported as of July 2024. This trend is particularly intriguing given the lack of formal diplomatic ties between the two countries.

According to the Indonesian Central Statistics Agency (BPS), Indonesian exports to Israel have shown a steady increase both on a monthly and annual basis.

During a press conference on Thursday, August 15, Acting Head of BPS, Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti, shared that “Indonesia’s exports to Israel saw a slight month-to-month increase.”

The primary commodities driving this export growth include animal and vegetable fats and oils, chemical products, and footwear. These items form the bulk of Indonesia’s exports to Israel, reflecting a diverse range of industries contributing to the country’s economic footprint abroad.

Data from the BPS indicates that in July 2024, Indonesia’s exports to Israel reached USD 16.247 million, marking a 1.86% increase from June’s USD 15.950 million. On a year-on-year basis, the growth is even more impressive, with a 21.39% increase from July 2023, when exports were valued at USD 13.384 million.