FedEx Launches Inaugural Export Challenge to Empower Indonesian SMEs in Expanding Globally

Jakarta, Indonesia, September 1, 2026 - Federal Express Corporation, one of the world's largest express transportation companies, today announced the launch of the inaugural FedEx Export Challenge, a nationwide initiative designed to equip small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to build export capabilities and accelerate their growth in international markets.

SMEs are the backbone of Indonesia's economy. According to Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (KemenUMKM), the country is home to approximately 57 million MSMEs, which contribute 60.5% of the country's GDP and employ 97% of the national workforce. Yet despite their significant role, SMEs account for only around 15.7% of Indonesia's total exports, highlighting the opportunity to help more businesses compete internationally.

"Indonesian SMEs are producing world-class products, from food and beverage to fashion and handicrafts, but too few of them are reaching international buyers. That gap is not due to a lack of ambition or quality, but often a lack of access to the resources and partners needed to take the next step," said Bianca Wong, vice president, Operations, FedEx Southeast Asia. "The FedEx Export Challenge is designed to bridge this divide by providing hands-on export training with practical logistics support. We want to give export-ready businesses the confidence and the tools to compete on the world stage."

Applications for the FedEx Export Challenge will open on 1 September and close on 18 September 2026. Organised in collaboration with BD Ekspor, an Indonesian export education and business development platform, the participation is free and open to export-ready SMEs across Indonesia. Interested businesses can register at: http://exportchallenge.bdekspor.com/.

"Indonesia has no shortage of exceptional products; what many businesses lack is a clear roadmap and the right partners to help them cross the border," said Nicholas Dennis, founder, BD ESKPOR. "Our mission at BD ESKPOR has always been to turn export-ready SMEs into genuine export champions, and collaborating with FedEx lets us pair practical export education with the global logistics strength to make that ambition real."

Throughout the programme, participants will gain practical insights into key aspects of cross-border trade, including market strategy, logistics, customs processes, regulatory compliance and business growth, drawing on the FedEx global network spanning more than 220 countries and territories. Participants will also take part in an online bootcamp before submitting export proposals, with finalists presenting their export growth strategies during the Grand Final in October. Winners will be recognised at the Indonesia Exporters Conference (IEC) 2026 in November.

Beyond industry recognition, the top three winners will receive financial support, FedEx shipping credits and export coaching from BD Ekspor to help accelerate their international expansion. Cash grants of US$3,000, US$1,500 and US$1,000 will be awarded to the first, second and third place winners, respectively.

FedEx has supported Indonesian businesses in reaching international markets since 1985, helping companies of all sizes connect with customers around the world. The Export Challenge is the latest step in that commitment, providing SMEs with the training, mentorship and logistics expertise needed to grow beyond borders.

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About Federal Express Corporation
Federal Express Corporation is one of the world's largest express transportation companies, providing fast and reliable delivery to more than 220 countries and territories. Federal Express Corporation uses a global air-and-ground network to speed the delivery of time-sensitive shipments by a definite time and date.

About BD EKSPOR
BD Ekspor is an Indonesian export business ecosystem dedicated to helping businesses become export-ready and compete in the global market. Through education, consulting, market access, business development, and strategic partnerships, BD Ekspor supports entrepreneurs and SMEs in building scalable export businesses and connecting with international opportunities.