Top Export Destinations for Indonesian Shallots in 2026

By: Bawang Merah Indonesia
Trusted shallot supplier since 1995

Indonesian shallots are gaining increasing recognition in the global market. With their distinctive flavor, varied sizes, and continuously improving quality, shallots from the Indonesian archipelago have successfully penetrated markets across multiple countries.

The year 2026 looks promising for Indonesian shallot exports. Demand from neighboring countries continues to rise, while new markets are beginning to open up. So, which countries are the main export destinations for Indonesian shallots?

Let’s explore the complete list!

1. Malaysia — The Largest and Most Strategic Market

Malaysia remains the number one export destination for Indonesian shallots. Geographic proximity, similar culinary preferences, and long-established trade relations make Malaysia the most stable market.

Export data to Malaysia (2025–2026 estimate):
– Export volume: 30,000–40,000 tons/year
– Export value: IDR 400–500 billion/year
– Market share: ~45–50% of total Indonesian shallot exports

Driving factors:
– Malaysia cannot meet its own shallot consumption needs
– The food and culinary industry (nasi lemak, soto, rendang) heavily depends on shallots
– Singapore–Malaysia logistics routes are highly efficient

Reference: Statistics Indonesia (BPS) — Horticulture Export Data 2024–2025

2. Thailand — Steady Year-Round Demand

Thailand is the second-largest importer of Indonesian shallots. Although Thailand is also a shallot producer, local production often falls short of domestic demand.

Export data to Thailand (2025–2026 estimate):
– Export volume: 15,000–20,000 tons/year
– Export value: IDR 200–280 billion/year

Driving factors:
– Thailand’s dry season reduces local production
– Indonesian shallots from Brebes have a stronger aroma, preferred by Thailand’s food industry
– ASEAN trade agreements provide competitive import tariffs

Reference: Ministry of Trade of Indonesia — Indonesia-Thailand Trade Balance

3. Singapore — Premium Market with High Purchasing Power

Although export volume to Singapore is smaller than Malaysia, the per-kilogram value is higher. Singapore is a premium market—consumers are willing to pay more for top quality.

Export data to Singapore (2025–2026 estimate):
– Export volume: 3,000–5,000 tons/year
– Export value: IDR 75–120 billion/year
– Selling price: 20–30% higher than export prices to Malaysia

Driving factors:
– Singapore’s strong economy and high purchasing power
– The upscale food service and restaurant industry requires stable supply
– Strict quality requirements push Indonesian exporters to raise standards

Reference: Singapore Food Agency (SFA) — Food Import Statistics

4. Vietnam — Rapidly Growing New Market

Vietnam has emerged as a significant export market for Indonesian shallots over the past 3–4 years. This market is growing rapidly alongside Vietnam’s processed food industry expansion.

Export data to Vietnam (2025–2026 estimate):
– Export volume: 5,000–8,000 tons/year
– Export value: IDR 70–110 billion/year
– Annual growth: 15–20% per year

Driving factors:
– Vietnam’s processed food industry is expanding rapidly
– Indonesian shallots are considered higher quality than local Vietnamese varieties
– Indonesia-Vietnam trade relations are strengthening in the ASEAN era

Reference: Ministry of Trade of Indonesia — Regional Export Report 2025

5. Timor Leste — Small Market with Big Potential

Timor Leste is a consistent export destination for Indonesian shallots. Although volumes are still limited, this market shows steady growth.

Export data to Timor Leste (2025–2026 estimate):
– Export volume: 2,000–3,000 tons/year
– Export value: IDR 25–40 billion/year

Driving factors:
– Timor Leste lacks adequate local shallot production
– Geographic proximity to East Nusa Tenggara facilitates logistics
– Improving bilateral relations

6. Japan — Promising Future Export Market

Japan is a challenging yet promising market. Quality standards are extremely high, but selling prices are also very competitive.

Export data to Japan (2025–2026 estimate):
– Export volume: 500–1,000 tons/year (still in early stages)
– Export value: IDR 25–50 billion/year
– Growth potential: very high if food safety standards are met

Driving factors:
– Japan imports 80% of its shallot needs
– Indonesian Rubaru variety (large size) is favored in the Japanese market
– Indonesia-Japan bilateral agricultural cooperation is intensifying

Export Destination Comparison

Export Opportunities to Other Countries

Beyond the six countries above, several other markets are showing interest in Indonesian shallots:

• Philippines — conducting trial imports
• Myanmar — medium-term potential
• Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia) — opportunity for processed shallots
• Netherlands — market for organic Indonesian shallots

Challenges in Indonesian Shallot Exports

Several challenges need to be addressed to boost exports:

1. Quality standards — some countries impose strict phytosanitary requirements
2. Production fluctuations — extreme weather affects supply
3. Logistics — shipping costs and cold chain infrastructure need improvement
4. Consistency — maintaining year-round quality and quantity supply

Ready to Export? We Can Help!

Bawang Merah Indonesia is ready to support your shallot export needs to various destination countries. With our farmer network, international quality standards, and over 30 years of experience, we are the right partner for your business.

📞 Contact us today: bawangmerahindo.com
📧 Email: info@bawangmerahindo.com

References: Statistics Indonesia (BPS), Ministry of Trade of Indonesia, Indonesian Agricultural Quarantine Agency, Singapore Food Agency, ASEAN Trade Database