The exports of unique Balinese crafts and antiques to Spain increased by 38.93 percent, from US$5.4 million recorded in January-April 2014 to US$7.4 million in the same period in 2015.
“Spain imports various woven products in the form of sandals, cloth bags, non-knitted items, confectionery, and furniture,” Balinese entrepreneur Made Parwata stated here on Thursday.
According to Parwata, Balis growth in foreign trade, particularly with Spain, seems positive, especially after the government increased the frequency of flights to European countries.
He remarked that Spanish consumers are consistent in buying various Balinese art products.
Spanish importers always order items via email every month.
In addition to Spain, the Netherlands, Greece, England, France, and the United States are the top ten buyers of Balinese handicrafts.
According to records provided by the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) of Bali, Spain ranks seventh in the list of largest buyers of Balinese non-oil products in early 2015, after the United States, which is the biggest consumer, with exports amounting to US$38.8 million followed by Japan at US$16.5 million, Singapore US$14 million, and Australia US$13.3 million.
The increasing number of foreign tourists travelling to Bali is expected to significantly affect foreign trading, especially the sale of souvenirs and agricultural products, including Balinese coffee.