North Sulawesi has marked a new milestone in its fisheries sector with the inaugural export of 273.3 kg of white teatfish (Holothuria fuscogilva) to the United States. This high-value marine commodity, which falls under trade restrictions and is listed in CITES Appendix II, requires careful handling and full documentation to ensure legal and sustainable trade. To meet these requirements, the Indonesian Agricultural Quarantine Agency (Barantin) conducted thorough checks, including physical inspections and document verification, before certifying the shipment through Sam Ratulangi Airport in Manado.
The head of North Sulawesi Quarantine, I Wayan Kertanegara, emphasized the importance of meeting international standards to avoid rejection and financial loss. He assured continued support for exporters, especially local MSMEs, by providing the necessary certifications and ensuring compliance with the destination country’s regulations. The quarantine certificate KI-1 was officially handed over to CV. Buka-Buka Island (BBI), the exporter. Governor Yulius Selvanus expressed optimism that this initial export will strengthen North Sulawesi’s revenue through the fisheries sector. He highlighted the potential for sustainable cultivation of white teatfish, which is subject to quota restrictions, allowing room for growth if managed well. The successful export was witnessed by representatives from Customs, the Natural Resources Conservation Agency, BPPMHKP, the provincial government, and relevant stakeholders, signaling strong inter-agency collaboration to boost the region’s presence in the international market.
