Malang — A 2026 study by Nurul Farida, Sudarmiatin, and Heri Pratikto from Universitas Negeri Malang shows that diaspora-driven networks play a strategic role in accelerating the internationalization of Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises by providing access to global markets, business knowledge, and cross-cultural trust. The research highlights diaspora communities as transnational economic assets that strengthen MSME competitiveness in international trade.
MSMEs contribute more than 60 percent of Indonesia’s gross domestic product and employ approximately 97 percent of the national workforce. Despite this strong domestic role, participation of Indonesian MSMEs in global export markets remains limited due to restricted access to international networks, regulatory knowledge, and overseas distribution channels.
The study identifies diaspora communities as strategic intermediaries capable of bridging these structural gaps. Diaspora members possess direct familiarity with foreign market systems, consumer preferences, and regulatory environments, making them effective facilitators of cross-border business expansion.
Using a qualitative case-study approach, the researchers conducted in-depth interviews, field observations, and documentation analysis involving MSME actors, diaspora members, and supporting associations such as the Indonesian Labor Association. This approach enabled a detailed understanding of how diaspora networks function within real internationalization processes.
Findings show that diaspora communities act as market connectors by introducing MSME products into overseas distribution systems. They also function as demand creators because diaspora consumers often prefer products originating from their home country, providing an initial entry market before wider global expansion.
Diaspora networks also serve as trust builders in international transactions. Their dual cultural identity allows them to mediate communication between domestic producers and foreign buyers, reducing uncertainty and strengthening business legitimacy.
Another important contribution of diaspora communities lies in their role as knowledge providers. They supply information about export regulations, consumer trends, and market opportunities, enabling MSMEs to adapt strategies more effectively for international competition.
A practical example of diaspora engagement is the Senggol Turkiye Market Festival held in Istanbul in 2023, where diaspora organizations promoted Indonesian MSME products through cultural and business events that connected producers with global audiences.
The study further explains that diaspora-driven networks operate through informal personal relationships, formal diaspora organizations, and hybrid institutional partnerships involving banks, governments, and international business communities. This combination creates a flexible and resilient support structure for MSME internationalization.
According to Nurul Farida from Universitas Negeri Malang, diaspora communities provide a unique cross-border linkage that reduces entry barriers and accelerates global market penetration for MSMEs.
Sudarmiatin from Universitas Negeri Malang emphasized that diaspora-based information channels help MSMEs understand foreign market dynamics without requiring costly direct international experience.
Heri Pratikto from Universitas Negeri Malang highlighted the importance of collaboration between diaspora networks, policymakers, financial institutions, and universities to create a sustainable ecosystem supporting MSME global expansion.
The study also proposes several strategic approaches for MSMEs, including building diaspora engagement through digital platforms, using diaspora communities as early distribution partners, and developing co-branding strategies for international marketing initiatives.
These findings provide important policy insights for governments and development institutions seeking to strengthen MSME export performance through socially embedded international business networks.
Nurul Farida is affiliated with Universitas Negeri Malang. Sudarmiatin is affiliated with Universitas Negeri Malang. Heri Pratikto is affiliated with Universitas Negeri Malang.
0 Komentar