Indonesia has emerged as the fourth-largest global exporter of tilapia, valued at USD 79 million with a market share of 9.7%. By 2023, this figure rose to USD 82 million, showcasing the country's growing prominence in the tilapia market. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) is optimistic about Indonesia's tilapia becoming a sought-after commodity globally, given the substantial market size of USD 1.65 billion in 2022. Frozen fillet products dominate exports at 60%, followed by frozen whole fish at 22%, fresh/chilled fillets at 14%, and fresh/chilled whole fish at 4%. Director-General Budi Sulistiyo highlighted the 7% growth in tilapia exports from 2017 to 2023, indicating Indonesia's competitive edge in the global market. The successful penetration of Indonesian tilapia into key markets like the United States, European Union, and Canada underscores its potential for further expansion, with other markets such as the Middle East presenting significant opportunities.
Indonesian tilapia's certification with eco-labels has positioned it favorably in the US market, commanding higher prices compared to similar products from other countries like China, Taiwan, and Honduras. Notably, there were no rejections of Indonesian tilapia exports to the US during the period, contrasting with 17 rejections for Chinese products due to various quality and safety issues. Budi emphasized the versatility of tilapia, where all parts of the fish are utilized to minimize waste. From fish heads used in local cuisine to scales for collagen and gelatin in cosmetics, and even fish oil for biofuel, Indonesia maximizes the value of tilapia across various industries. The MMAF is actively fostering partnerships between enterprises and local communities to enhance tilapia cultivation practices, covering breeding, farming, and marketing. Additionally, efforts are underway to expand market access and promote Indonesian tilapia in Asian and Middle Eastern countries to bolster exports further.
