The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) and French authorities have initiated a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) to establish equivalence in quality assurance systems, aiming to enhance market access and competitiveness for marine and fisheries exports. Ishartini, Head of the Agency for the Supervision and Quality Control of Marine and Fisheries Products (BPPMHKP), announced this initiative during a transformation from the Fish Quarantine and Quality Control Agency (BKIPM) to BPPMHKP. The MRA is designed to facilitate bilateral trade by setting procedures for licensing registration and issuing approval numbers for exports and imports between the two countries. Ishartini emphasized that the organizational changes would not compromise the quality of Indonesian fisheries products, ensuring international partners of the maintained standards.
She highlighted the global trend toward stringent food safety standards that produce high-quality, safe-to-consume products. This development aligns with Trade Facilitation (TF) efforts, promoting streamlined processes while safeguarding human health and the environment. The MRA is part of a broader strategy to harmonize Quality Assurance and Food Safety Systems (SJMKHKP), ensuring that Indonesian products meet international standards. Ishartini concluded by noting that Indonesia's SJMKHKP standards are competitive globally, as evidenced by the acceptance of Indonesian products in over 100 countries. This agreement with France marks a significant step in strengthening the country's fisheries export sector and ensuring compliance with global food safety standards.
