Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Ministry of Trade has facilitated Indonesian women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to participate in the Spring Fair 2026 in Birmingham, the United Kingdom, as part of efforts to expand their international market reach.Director General of National Export Promotion Fajarini Puntodewi said in a statement on Tuesday that the ministry brought nine local brands to the trade show, which runs from February 1 to 4. The brands offer a range of products, including fashion items, accessories, textiles, garments, and home decor.“Through participation in this exhibition, women-led MSMEs are expected to build long-term business partnerships, expand into the British and European markets, seize new sales opportunities, and strengthen their capacity to meet international standards,” Puntodewi said.She noted that the Ministry of Trade recognizes the significant role of women in Indonesia’s economy and creative industries, adding that women manage more than 70 percent of MSMEs nationwide.Puntodewi expressed hope that increased participation in international exhibitions would help boost MSME export volumes and reinforce the role of female entrepreneurs in promoting inclusive trade.Meanwhile, Indonesian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Ireland, and the International Maritime Organization, Desra Percaya, highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to support women-led MSMEs in accessing overseas markets.“It is essential to build synergy among the government, international institutions, and strategic partners to provide women-led MSMEs with broader opportunities to grow and compete globally,” he said.Indonesia and the United Kingdom recorded bilateral trade worth US$2.41 billion between January and November 2025. During the period, Indonesia exported products valued at US$1.43 billion to the UK. Total bilateral trade reached US$2.78 billion in 2024.Indonesia’s main exports to the UK include iron and steel products, footwear, electrical machinery and equipment, wood and wood products, and mechanical appliances. Meanwhile, imports from the UK are dominated by vehicles and their parts, optical devices, and pharmaceutical products.