Crisis-Adjustment Strategies Adopted by SMEs in Coping with the 2008-2009 Global Economic Crisis: The Case of Indonesia

This study explores crisis-adjustment strategies adopted by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia in coping with the 2008-2009 global economic crisis. For the purpose of the study, a field survey on export-oriented SMEs in the wood and rattan furniture industry was conducted. The furniture industry was chosen as it is among several industries in Indonesia severely affected by the crisis. From June 2008 to June 2009, export of Indonesian furniture declined significantly. The survey found that the highest-ranking adjustment measure taken by the majority of the respondents was seeking out new customers or markets. It also found that for those who made adjustments to their existing workforce, the most important form was reducing working time. Overall, it was found that uneducated and female workers were the most affected by the labor-adjustment measures.