Eighteen containers of processed rubber wood commodities from Bengkulu were recently exported directly to China from the Port of Pulau Baai, Bengkulu. Governor Rohidin Mersyah highlighted the need for regular exports of various superior commodities from Bengkulu, emphasizing the importance of accelerating commodity exports in the region. Notably, there has been a significant increase in coffee exports over the past few weeks, raising questions about whether coffee will be exported directly to the destination country or undergo further processing domestically. In addition to coffee, the Governor emphasized the potential for exporting other commodities such as rubber, coconut, and wood processing industries, which would strengthen the region's economic prospects. He stressed the importance of coordination among various stakeholders, including quarantine authorities, industry associations, and local governments, in determining export volumes and ensuring continuity. The General Manager of Pelindo Regional II Bengkulu, S. Joko, highlighted the substantial potential for wood exports, particularly rubberwood from Bengkulu, alongside coffee and coconut. Efforts are underway to address challenges like double handling in exports, with plans to introduce foreign container ships sailing directly from Bengkulu to enhance efficiency.
Furthermore, discussions have been held on improving logistics efficiency by 25%, with initial steps including infrastructure surveys conducted by surveyors in Bengkulu. Foritha Ramadhani Wati SE MSi, Head of the Department of Industry and Trade of Bengkulu Province, revealed plans to sustain Bengkulu's commodity exports through coordinated meetings with stakeholders, evaluating export potentials, and involving exporters in strategy formulation. In response, President Director of PT Wina Harapan, Panangian Siregar, pledged to bring containers directly to Bengkulu for international exports, aiming to reduce dependency on other ports. This commitment reflects optimism for positive economic impacts through increased exports, potentially boosting local revenue and benefiting the economy. The upcoming coordination meeting is expected to yield concrete steps to strengthen Bengkulu's commodity exports to international markets, with support from stakeholders aimed at positioning Bengkulu as a competitive export center contributing positively to national economic development.
