KKP Strengthens North Sulawesi as a Fisheries Processing and Export Hub in Eastern Indonesia

JAKARTA – Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is enhancing North Sulawesi’s role as a key fisheries processing and export hub in eastern Indonesia.

In 2024, North Sulawesi’s fishery exports reached USD172.5 million, with a total volume of 27.7 million kilograms. Leading commodities—Tuna, Skipjack, and Frigate Tuna (TCT)—contributed USD165 million or 95% of the total value.

“These products are exported as loins, fillets, and frozen ready-to-eat, proving the success of our downstream strategy,” said Tornanda Syaifullah, Director General of PDSPKP.

🌎 Key Export Markets:

USA: USD54.8 million

Middle East: USD38 million

Japan: USD25.1 million

ASEAN: USD17 million

Tornanda emphasized that downstream processing supports not only exports but also domestic programs like free nutritious meals and food security.

❄️ Cold Chain & Fish Processing Units: Backbone of the Industry

The ministry is focused on strengthening the cold chain system—from fishing vessels to processing units (UPI), cold storage, and export logistics.

There are 68 medium-to-large-scale fish processing industries in North Sulawesi, mainly based in Bitung City.

Additional strategies include:

Cold chain revitalization

Export partnerships & market access

Cooperatives & MSME development

Domestic use in social food programs

“We will continue to strengthen the fisheries downstream ecosystem as a pillar of Indonesia’s blue economy,” Tornanda concluded.