The blood cockle emerges as the newest export commodity from the food sector of West Manggarai Regency (Mabar) in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), with Thailand, also known as Siam or the Land of White Elephants, as the destination country. Fatinci Reynilda, the Head of the Food Security and Fisheries Department (KP2) of Mabar, responded to media inquiries in Labuan Bajo, stating that the blood cockles from Manggarai Barat originate from Terang Subdistrict, Boleng. From January to May 2024, these blood cockles have been exported to Thailand six times, totaling 6,275 kilograms during this period. Additionally, local food commodities that have been regular exports include Spanish mackerel and grouper fish, with Taiwan, Malaysia, and Singapore being the destination countries. The total export of Spanish mackerel and grouper fish from Manggarai Barat in the January-May 2024 period amounted to 5,543 kilograms. The majority of grouper fish shipments were destined for Singapore, Malaysia, and Taiwan, mirroring the pattern for Spanish mackerel. However, blood cockles are exclusively shipped to Thailand.

Regarding other food supplies in Manggarai Barat, Fatinci Reynilda disclosed that the rice stock is currently sufficient due to the recent harvest festival in the region from May to June 2024, particularly in the irrigated areas of Lembor. The local harvest of rice, totaling 80 tons, has been absorbed by the local Logistics Agency (Bulog), with 50 tons absorbed in May 2024 and an additional 30 tons absorbed temporarily in June. Inquiries about the soybean, corn, shallot, and garlic stock in Mabar were also addressed by Fatinci Reynilda, who assured that these commodities are consistently available in the area. Overall, the exports from Mabar continue steadily, ensuring a reliable income stream for the region.

Source: https://florespos.net/index.php/2024/06/09/kerang-darah-komoditi-ekspor-terbaru-mabar/