The Central Java Provincial Government is actively promoting the completion of the Kendal Port construction, aiming to enhance export opportunities and attract more investors to the province. This initiative was highlighted by the Secretary of the Central Java Provincial Government, Sumarno, during the Ministry of Trade's Working Meeting at Hotel Padma Semarang on Tuesday (20/2/2024). Sumarno emphasized the strategic importance of the port in boosting foreign trade in Central Java and acknowledged the pending completion of the port in the Kendal Industrial Zone as a significant task. He explained that historically, trade from Central Java to foreign countries has been routed through ports like Tanjung Perak and Tanjung Priok, bypassing Central Java's economic value. Establishing Kendal Port would rectify this by making Central Java the point of export origin, thus retaining the trade value within the province. Sumarno also mentioned previous commitments between the Indonesian government and Singapore regarding the construction of a port in Kendal, albeit facing obstacles within the Kendal Industrial Zone. He expressed optimism towards the port's development as a means to enhance trade in Central Java significantly.
The Secretary commended Semarang City for hosting the productive meeting, acknowledging its positive impact on the local economy due to increased visitor traffic. Meanwhile, Ratna Kawuri, the Head of the Central Java Provincial Industry and Trade Office, highlighted the importance of synergy and harmony between the central government in formulating work programs during the Ministry of Trade's meeting. Minister of Trade Zulkifli Hasan emphasized the meeting's goal of expanding trade to compete globally, urging all stakeholders to support this endeavor. He stressed the necessity of a robust domestic trade system to strengthen the export market. Zulkifli further emphasized the need for traditional market traders to keep pace with modern markets to sustain and develop the local economy effectively. The comprehensive approach outlined during the meeting aims to bolster Central Java's economic landscape through infrastructure provision, market access enhancement, and human capital development.
