TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Trade Minister Budi Santoso fully supports the activities of bird enthusiasts in Indonesia. He stated that the economic value of this ecosystem ranges from Rp1.7 to Rp2 trillion annually.
Budi said that aside from the large amount of money circulated within the country, the export value of songbirds is quite significant. In 2025 alone, he mentioned that Indonesia exported songbirds and ornamental birds worth Rp12.5 billion.
“Well, if we look at the economic value behind the kicau mania (songbird enthusiasts), it’s around Rp1.7 to Rp2 trillion. And last year, we already exported ornamental birds worth Rp12.5 billion. So, the birds are ornamental, and they are bred,” said Budi after attending a songbird competition held in the parking lot of the Ministry of Trade, Jakarta, on Sunday, 3 May 2025.
Budi explained that the activities of bird enthusiasts have a multiplier effect on the economy. With more people involved in this ecosystem, the impact is also felt by birdcage craftsmen, animal feed breeders, as well as the bird feed and accessories industry.
Budi said that the songbirds’ hobby activities do not involve capturing them from their natural habitat to avoid disrupting the ecosystem. Specifically for exports, he continued, the birds come from farms specifically for the export market. “So the purpose is to protect the original bird habitat,” said Budi.
Budi added that, in support of the songbird hobby ecosystem, the Ministry of Trade will hold regular competitions every year. With this, he hopes that this ecosystem will grow even larger and have an impact on the economy.
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