Indonesia Eyes Larger Role in Global Hajj and Umrah Food Supply Chain

Indonesia is positioning itself to play a significant role in the global supply chain for food intended for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. The nation sees substantial potential in sectors including food, agriculture, fisheries, livestock, and processed goods, aiming to become a key supplier to Saudi Arabia.

Prof. Dr. Jaenal Effendi, Director General of Hajj and Umrah Economic Ecosystem Development at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, stressed that realizing this potential requires robust connectivity, coordination, and structured partnerships. "Hajj catering requirements go beyond ready-to-eat meals; they encompass a wide range of food commodities such as rice, meat, fish, vegetables, spices, and processed products," he stated, highlighting the diverse needs of the market.

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Hajj catering requirements go beyond ready-to-eat meals; they encompass a wide range of food commodities such as rice, meat, fish, vegetables, spices, and processed products.

These opportunities were a focal point at the Indonesia–Saudi Arabia Partnership Forum 2026 Business Matching event. Organized by the Amanah Hajj and Umrah Association of the Republic of Indonesia (ASHURI), the forum served as a platform for government officials, businesses, exporters, importers, and logistics companies from both nations to forge strategic partnerships. The theme, "Building Strategic Partnerships for a Sustainable Pilgrim Supply Chain," underscored the goal of creating a strong ecosystem for Indonesian producers, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), to enter and thrive in the Saudi market.

Nur Faidzin, Chairman of ASHURI, noted that the forum supports the government's vision to strengthen the Hajj and Umrah economic ecosystem, promising tangible benefits for the public and businesses. He highlighted Indonesia's capacity as a global producer of high-quality halal food, with commodities like rice, spices, cooking oil, processed foods, and beverages holding significant potential to meet the demands of millions of pilgrims annually. This initiative is expected to boost national exports and create added value across the entire supply chain, from farmers to logistics providers.

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Building Strategic Partnerships for a Sustainable Pilgrim Supply Chain