What happens when a popular business trend is suddenly restricted by the government? Indonesia is facing that exact dilemma as the nation moves to limit imported secondhand clothing—better known as thrifting. And here's where it gets interesting: the government isn’t shutting the door without offering a new path forward.
Indonesia has officially enforced a ban on imported used apparel, a move designed to safeguard local industries. But rather than leaving thrift traders stranded, President Prabowo Subianto has tasked the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with a mission: create homegrown alternatives that thrift sellers can rely on.
After a meeting at the Presidential Palace, MSME Minister Maman Abdurrahman revealed that the President wants the ministry not only to protect local producers but also to provide substitution products that can replace imported secondhand goods. In simpler terms, the goal is to help thrift sellers shift toward selling locally produced fashion items, particularly those crafted by Indonesia’s MSMEs.
Abdurrahman pointed out that Indonesian-made products—especially from creative hotspots like Bandung—are already strong competitors in terms of design, quality, and price. According to him, “There are plenty of excellent local products, and thrift traders will be encouraged to promote and sell them.” This signals a push to transform thrift markets into platforms that spotlight Indonesian creativity.
But here’s the part most people miss: the government isn’t trying to kill thrift culture. Instead, it is searching for a middle ground. While the ban stays in effect to protect domestic textile producers, officials insist on a fair transition that won’t crush micro-businesses that depend on thrift sales.
Abdurrahman also challenged a common belief in the thrift world—that secondhand automatically means cheaper. He stressed that thrift prices can be unpredictable and entirely dependent on vendor markups. In some cases, new local products may even be more affordable and offer better value.
He reassured the public, saying, “This shouldn’t turn into a conflict. We must shield local MSMEs, but thrift entrepreneurs also need to survive. We will find the best possible solution.” His statement reflects a broader effort under President Prabowo’s leadership to strengthen economic independence and empower MSMEs—hinting at a future where fashion markets rely more on sustainable, locally made goods.
This strategic shift could reshape Indonesia’s fashion ecosystem. But is replacing thrift imports with local products the right move, or could it disrupt a beloved culture of sustainable shopping? Some will argue this protects the local economy; others may say it limits consumer choice and affordability.
💬 What’s your take? Should Indonesia prioritize local products even if it changes the thrift culture, or should the import ban be loosened to allow both markets to coexist? Share your thoughts—this one is bound to spark debate!
