Indonesia is taking a bold step to improve access to jobs in Europe for its migrant workers through a strategic trade mission. Christina Aryani, Deputy Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, described this move as a way to promote service exports while creating more professional opportunities abroad for Indonesians.
The trade mission is being organized in partnership with the Ministry of Trade, with both ministries agreeing to work closely on expanding job placements overseas. A business meeting is scheduled for August or September 2025 to explore sectors with strong demand for Indonesian workers.
Christina explained that the initial focus will be on the hospitality industry in countries like Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Greece, and Germany. These countries have consistent demand for roles such as housekeeping, spa therapy, baristas, chefs, and waiters.
“We are targeting the sectors that match job orders already received and can be filled by qualified Indonesians,” she said, adding that only credible and experienced placement companies (P3MIs) would be involved to ensure quality placements.
She emphasized that this mission is not only about increasing job placements but also about helping Indonesians gain access to global markets professionally and legally.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri noted that the trade mission aligns with the ministry’s goal of boosting service exports. She also mentioned that this collaboration could support the upcoming Indonesia-EU Sustainable Investment and Partnership Agreement (SIPA).
“This partnership is a timely initiative to explore and promote Indonesian services on a global scale,” she said.
What job sectors will the Indonesian trade mission focus on for migrant workers
The trade mission will mainly focus on the hospitality sector, including jobs like housekeeping, barista, waiter, chef, and spa therapist, as these are in high demand in European countries.
With this approach, Indonesia is setting up a strong foundation for its migrant workforce to access quality jobs abroad, while also strengthening the country’s service export strategy.