Marine Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono said production is being expanded to meet international market needs, including through the development of the Saline Tilapia Cultivation Area (BINS) in Karawang and the revitalization of ponds along the North Coast.
“These two programs aim to increase national tilapia production capacity while ensuring that all cultivation processes meet applicable international standards,” Trenggono said in a statement on Monday.
Erwin Dwiyana, a senior KKP official, noted tilapia’s appeal to global consumers, describing it as the “chicken of the sea” due to its mild flavor, ease of preparation, and high protein content of 20–29 grams per 100 grams.
“Currently, tilapia is our export commodity with zero rejections,” Dwiyana emphasized, citing certifications such as GMP-SSOP, HACCP, ISO 22000, SQF, BAP, ASC, and BRC as critical to market acceptance.
One of Indonesia’s leading producers, Regal Springs Indonesia, has already penetrated the UK market, supplying the Greene King pub chain.
Regal Springs Director Tri Dharma Saputra said certification under the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has been pivotal.
“With the ASC, fish farming is required to transform. Everything is measured, recorded, and evaluated, from water management and feeding to maintaining the health and welfare of the fish,” Saputra explained.
He added that the transformation ensures Indonesian tilapia is not only high‑quality but also environmentally sustainable.
In the UK, tilapia is served in dishes ranging from fish and chips to fine dining menus, with low consumer complaint rates.
Price competitiveness also strengthens its position against established whitefish such as cod and trout, Saputra noted.
Translator: Shofi Ayudiana, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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