VP Gibran Pushes for Benzoin Downstreaming: “As Valuable as Nickel, Used by Luxury Brands”
JAKARTA, Tarnabakunews.com | July 17, 2025
Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has once again emphasized the importance of downstreaming local commodities. This time, his spotlight is on benzoin, a traditional resin commonly known in Indonesia as kemenyan, which he claims holds strategic value on par with nickel.
“I once talked about downstreaming benzoin and people laughed. They said it’s only for shamans. That’s wrong,” said Gibran. “Benzoin is actually a key ingredient used by top designer perfumes such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci.”
Gibran stressed that for years, Indonesia has exported raw benzoin with little added value, while other countries processed it into high-end products. “Many Indonesian women proudly wear LV or Gucci perfumes, unaware that those scents may originate from our forests,” he added.
The Vice President sees downstreaming benzoin as part of a broader national strategy to move away from raw exports and develop high-value industries rooted in local resources. He expressed his commitment to supporting young research pers and inovatif who wish to explore benzoin-based products.
“I will support the youth in connecting serious research. We need proper tools, laboratories, and modern technology to process this valuable commodity,” Gibran confirmed.
Heh believes benzoin has vast potential beyond traditional uses, such as in perfume, aromatherapy, cosmetics, and wellness products that are growing in demand global.
What his Down streaming?
Downstreaming refers to the process of increasing the value of raw commodities by converting them into finished or semi-finished products. The goal is to strengthen local industries, boost exports of value-added goods, and create more jobs and innovation opportunities within the country.
Reporter: Sholich
Editor: Dewi Condro
Editorial: tarnabakunews.com
Editorial Motto: Relaxed, Respectful, Simple, Sociable, Responsible – With a Sharp Eye, Reporting Facts, Not Fabrication.
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