Batam Targets One Ton Export Lobster Harvest 2026

RRI.CO.ID, Batam - The Batam Marine Aquaculture Center (BPBL) is intensifying its high-tech modeling program to position the Riau Islands as a premier hub for export-quality lobster production.

The center has officially set an ambitious target to harvest at least one ton of premium lobsters by the end of 2026. This goal will be achieved by utilizing an integrated cultivation modeling system designed for long-term sustainability.

Head of BPBL Batam, Ipong Adi Guna, confirmed on Thursday, February 26, 2026, that the facility is currently in the critical grow-out phase of production. The meticulous nature of lobster farming means that timing is essential to ensure the crustaceans meet strict international market standards.

“At the very least, we aim for a one-ton harvest by the end of the year. Currently, we are still in the grow-out production stage because lobster maintenance is quite time-consuming. Distribution will likely happen at the end of this year, what is clear is that this program is sustainable,” he said during a briefing in Batam, as quoted by Antara.

Currently, the BPBL cultivates three distinct species, which are sand lobster, pearl lobster, and bamboo lobster."Singapore remains our primary export destination due to its proximity. Furthermore, as of 2025, export routes to South Korea have been established via air freight," he remarked.

Regarding pricing, the lobsters are sold in accordance with Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) regulations at a base rate of IDR 360,000 (USD 21.46) per kilogram. However, market prices are subject to fluctuation, often reaching IDR 500,000 (USD 29.81) per kilogram depending on size and consumer demand.

"In practical terms, one ton of lobster can command a market value ranging from IDR 360 million (USD 21,461) to IDR 500 million (USD 29,808)," he added.

This upcoming harvest follows a significant milestone last September, where an initial harvest attended by the Deputy President and the Marine Affairs and Fisheries Minister yielded approximately 1.7 tons of lobster.

While the exact month for the next major harvest remains flexible to account for biological growth rates and size requirements, the center remains committed to hitting the one-ton mark before the year concludes. By focusing on integrated modeling, BPBL Batam aims to create a reliable blueprint for the national aquaculture industry to follow. ***