Food and Hospitality Indonesia 2026 Initiative Launched to Promote Local Brands in Global Markets

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Indonesia has launched the Food and Hospitality Indonesia 2026 (FHI 2026) initiative to promote local brands in global markets, aiming to position the country as a leading gastronomy hub. The program, announced by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, focuses on strengthening the visibility of Indonesian culinary products and hospitality services worldwide.

According to a statement from the ministry, FHI 2026 will serve as a platform to connect Indonesian entrepreneurs with international buyers, investors, and media. The event, scheduled to take place in 2026, is part of a broader strategy to leverage Indonesia’s rich culinary heritage and creative industries for economic growth.

The initiative builds on previous efforts to elevate Indonesian cuisine, such as the “Wonderful Indonesia Gourmet” campaign, which was highlighted in a 2026 report by RRI.co.id. That campaign emphasized the diversity of regional cuisines, from Sumatran sambal to Balinese satay, and sought to attract global tourism and investment.

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Initiative Aims to Boost Local Brands
FHI 2026 is designed to address challenges faced by Indonesian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in accessing international markets. The ministry cited a 2025 study by the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which found that 60% of local food and beverage companies lacked the resources to scale globally. The initiative will provide training, networking opportunities, and marketing support to participating businesses.

“FHI 2026 is not just about exporting products; it’s about building long-term relationships with global partners,” said a ministry spokesperson, citing data from the Indonesian Trade Ministry. The event will feature pavilions showcasing traditional and modern Indonesian foods, as well as workshops on sustainable practices and digital marketing.

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Government and Private Sector Collaboration
The program involves collaboration between the government, private sector stakeholders, and international organizations. Partners include the Indonesian Food and Beverage Association (INAFI) and the World Trade Organization (WTO), which have pledged to assist in market access strategies.

A 2026 report by ANTARA News noted that FHI 2026 will align with Indonesia’s national tourism strategy, “Bali to Papua,” which emphasizes regional development and cultural preservation. The initiative also aims to support the government’s target of increasing tourism revenue to $50 billion annually by 2026.

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Challenges and Next Steps
While the initiative has received support from industry leaders, some experts caution that success depends on addressing infrastructure and regulatory hurdles. A 2025 analysis by the Jakarta-based Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (IDEA) highlighted the need for improved logistics and standardized quality controls to meet international demand.

The ministry has outlined plans to host regional preparatory events in 2024 and 2025, including trade fairs in Jakarta, Surabaya, and Medan. These events will serve as testing grounds for the full-scale FHI 2026, according to a statement from the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy.

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Global Interest and Potential Impact
Early indications suggest strong international interest. In 2026, the European Union’s delegation in Indonesia expressed support for the initiative, citing opportunities to diversify supply chains and promote sustainable food systems. Similarly, a 2026 report by the Asian Development Bank noted that Indonesia’s culinary exports could grow by 15% annually if supported by targeted policies.

The ministry also emphasized the cultural significance of the project, stating that it aligns with UNESCO’s recognition of Indonesian cuisine as an intangible cultural heritage. “FHI 2026 is a step toward preserving our culinary traditions while adapting them to global tastes,” said a representative from the Indonesian Cultural Heritage Agency.

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Current Status and Future Outlook
As of July 2026, the ministry has confirmed 120 participating businesses, with applications open until December 2026. The event’s official website, fhi2026.id, provides updates on registration deadlines, theme categories, and partner organizations.

Industry observers will be monitoring the initiative’s impact on Indonesia’s trade balance and tourism sector. A 2026 study by the University of Indonesia’s School of Economics predicted that FHI 2026 could generate $2 billion in additional exports over a five-year period, contingent on effective implementation.

The ministry has also partnered with the Indonesian Embassy in Germany to host a pre-FHI 2026 tasting event in Berlin, scheduled for October 2026. This effort reflects the government’s broader strategy to expand Indonesia’s soft power through food and culture.