Indonesia is known for its vast maritime resources. The country is surrounded by seas and oceans, making it one of the largest archipelagos in the world. The waters surrounding Indonesia are rich in various marine resources, including fish, crustaceans, and other sea creatures. As a result, Indonesia has become a major exporter of marine commodities, contributing significantly to the country’s economy. In this article, we will discuss the various marine commodities exported from Indonesia and their importance to the Indonesian economy.
Fisheries
Indonesia is one of the world’s largest producers of fish. The country has a rich variety of marine species, including tuna, mackerel, snapper, and grouper. Fishery products are one of Indonesia’s most significant marine commodities exported to other countries. According to the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Indonesia exported fish and fishery products worth US$ 4.6 billion in 2020.
One of the most significant fishery products exported from Indonesia is shrimp. Shrimp farming is prevalent in Indonesia, and the country is one of the largest producers of shrimp globally. The shrimp industry in Indonesia is concentrated in Sumatra, Java, and Sulawesi. In 2020, Indonesia exported shrimp and prawns worth US$3 billion.
Seaweed
Indonesia is also a significant producer and exporter of seaweed. Seaweed is used for various purposes, including food ingredients, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Indonesia is one of the largest seaweed producers globally and is famous for its high-quality products. The country exports seaweed to China, Japan, and South Korea. In 2020, Indonesia exported seaweed worth US$ 162 million.
Coral
Indonesia is home to some of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs. The country’s coral reefs are known for their biodiversity and attract millions of tourists every year. Coral reefs are also a vital marine commodity for Indonesia. Coral is used in the aquarium trade and is exported to countries around the world. In 2020, Indonesia exported corals worth US$ 8.5 million.
Crustaceans
Indonesia is also a significant producer of crustaceans, including crabs and lobsters. The country’s high-quality crustaceans are in high demand in Asian markets such as Taiwan, Japan, and Hong Kong. Indonesia exports crustaceans worth millions of dollars every year, contributing significantly to the country’s economy.
Pearls
Indonesia is also famous for its high-quality pearls. The country produces some of the world’s most beautiful pearls, which are in high demand in the global market. The pearl industry in Indonesia is concentrated in several regions, including Bali, Lombok, and Maluku. In 2020, Indonesia exported pearls worth US$ 30 million.
Conclusion
In conclusion, marine commodities are essential to Indonesia’s economy, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. Indonesia’s vast maritime resources provide various opportunities for the country to increase its exports and further develop its marine industry. As the world’s population continues to grow, the demand for marine commodities will increase, providing Indonesia with an opportunity to further expand its exports and strengthen its economy.
