"This is an extraordinary potential that can be tapped into by our people, and I think it is worth pursuing, as Indonesia accounts for 60 percent of the swallow nest supply globally,” Sudaryono noted in a statement on Wednesday (Jan 8).
Sudaryono highlighted that the government will provide support to swallow farmers keen to initiate cultivation for export purposes.
Should any regulations impede these efforts, he made assurance that the government is prepared to accelerate and simplify the necessary processes.
"From the government's side, we want to increase export volume and simplify regulations so entrepreneurs and the community are more enthusiastic. The president's determination is clear. We want to be self-sufficient in food, reduce imports, and increase exports," he remarked.
Sudaryono expressed hope that Indonesia’s contribution to exports could rise beyond 60 percent, targeting a range of 63 to 65 percent so that Indonesian swallow nests can lead the global export market.
"By merely providing nesting places for swallows, farmers can earn quite a large income. The price of swallow nests, reaching tens of millions of rupiah per kilogram, can also strengthen the family's economy," he remarked.
The Ministry of Agriculture is also encouraging the downstreaming of swallow nest products to increase the gross domestic product (GDP).
Indonesia stands as the primary supplier of swallow nests globally, contributing between 60 and 80 percent of the total worldwide supply.
China remains the principal destination for these exports, importing around 500 tons from Indonesia's total annual export volume of 1,800 tons.
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Translator: Muhammad Harianto, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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