Riau Islands Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Center (Kepri) collaborated with BP Batam's Chief, Muhammad Rudi, to inaugurate the first live mangrove crab (scylla serrata) export to Shanghai, China, on Wednesday, January 31, 2024. Head of Batam's SKIPM M Darwin Syah Putra stated the export's value at IDR 17 million for 120 kilograms. The crabs, owned by entrepreneur Pak Abun and sourced from outside Kepri, were shipped via Garuda Indonesia. Darwin emphasized the significance of crab farming in Batam, being the world's third-largest export commodity, highlighting the need for cultivation advancements. This inaugural export reflects positive strides in fisheries and livestock trade, according to Herwintarti, Head of Kepri's Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Center, boosting business morale. Notably, premium products like Musang King durian and live poultry from Bintan Island mark Kepri's distinct offerings, showcasing successful collaborations.

Muhammad Rudi of BP Batam pledged support for expanding crab farming, offering land on Batam's 340 islands, envisioning substantial export growth. Abun, the crab entrepreneur, revealed the market price of crabs surged from IDR 100,000 to IDR 300,000 per kilogram when exported to China. He lamented the decline in local crab population due to overfishing, contrasting with the 90s when monthly catches reached 5 tons. In conclusion, the live crab export symbolizes Kepri's potential in global trade, stimulating economic optimism and highlighting the importance of sustainable farming practices for long-term industry viability.

Source: https://bisnis.tempo.co/read/1828285/batam-ekspor-perdana-kepiting-bakau-ke-cina