Assessing the Compatibility of Indonesian Export Products with African Markets:
an RCA, IDI, and TCI Approach
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70184/8q6eem70
Indonesian exports; , African markets; , comparative advantage; , import demand; , trade complementarity; , product–market fit.
Abstract
Purpose: This study analyzes the compatibility between Indonesian export products and demand in African markets using a product–market fit approach. It examines comparative advantage, import demand relevance, and trade complementarity to identify potential export opportunities.
Research Method: The study uses a descriptive quantitative approach based on international trade data for 2024–2025 at the six-digit Harmonized System (HS6) level. It covers 54 African countries across five regions: North, West, Central, East, and Southern Africa. The analysis applies the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA), Import Demand Index (IDI), and Trade Complementarity Index (TCI), interpreted from a multidimensional perspective.
Results and Discussion: Exports of palm oil (HS151190), unroasted coffee (HS090111), and ferronickel (HS720260) increased by 23.09%, 54.02%, and 16.52%, respectively. Exports of copper ores (HS260300), other coal (HS270119), and passenger car tires (HS401110) declined by 38.61%, 18.03%, and 8.11%. The highest preliminary TCI values were recorded in Southern Africa in 2024 (24.80) and North Africa in 2025 (25.32). Exploratory product-share alignment scores were highest for passenger car tires (54.30), coffee (19.23), and palm oil (17.65). These findings indicate that export development should account for both product competitiveness and destination-market demand and trade structures. Since import data were available for only 34 countries in 2024 and 22 in 2025, the TCI results are preliminary.
Implications: The findings can inform product- and region-specific strategies for Indonesia’s market penetration in Africa. Further research should use more complete trade data to validate the regional complementarity results.
Originality: This study offers a product- and region-based framework for mapping Indonesian export opportunities in Africa by jointly considering comparative advantage, import demand, and trade complementarity.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Meilina Sukmarini, Hesri Mintawati, Sitty Hikmawatty, M. Luthfi Abdul Ajiz (Author)
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