Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s rich traditional textile heritage holds an estimated $251.34 million in global export potential, driven by targeted trade diplomacy and expanding access across 32 international markets, according to the Trade Ministry.Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri revealed during the opening of BTN Indonesia Fashion Week (IFW) 2026 in Jakarta, Wednesday, that the ministry facilitated 424 business matching and product pitching sessions between January and June 2026.The initiatives involved 1,148 domestic business actors and were supported by the network of Indonesia Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) trade attachés and the national “MSMEs Can Export” program.Roro stated that the Trade Ministry, along with central and regional stakeholders, continues to support major events that promote Indonesian textiles as cultural icons with deep historical heritage capable of capturing international market interest.This year's edition of Indonesia Fashion Week, running from July 29 to August 1, centers on the theme “Ulos Simetria”— highlighting the traditional handwoven cloth of the Batak people of North Sumatra.Historically worn during ceremonial milestones, Ulos symbolizes traditional prayers, affection, and intergenerational wisdom.Meanwhile, the “simetria” (symmetry) concept underscores the balance between heritage preservation and modern commercial innovation.”When Ulos is combined with the concept of balance, this theme conveys an important message for the Indonesian fashion industry: how to maintain cultural heritage relevance through innovation, develop cultural values into products of high economic value and elevate North Sumatra's local wisdom to the global stage,” Roro explained.She stressed that the theme encourages the public to view cultural heritage not only through the lens of preservation, but also as a high-value commodity ready to compete in domestic and global markets.The deputy minister added that fashion serves as an effective instrument for cultural diplomacy, fostering bilateral engagement by sharing the craftsmanship and heritage behind Indonesian textiles with global consumers.