Indonesia’s Seaweed Industry Emerges as Global Investment Magnet

KBRN, Jakarta: Indonesia’s seaweed industry is drawing growing international attention, with investors eyeing its vast potential for both food and non-food applications.

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) highlighted seaweed and salt as two sectors attracting strong interest during the recent Investment and Business Matching event in Jakarta, held as part of National Fish Day celebrations.

“Investment interest is highest in seaweed. That’s where most of the attention is,” said Machmud, Acting Director General of Strengthening the Competitiveness of Marine and Fisheries Products (PDSPKP), during a press briefing on Thursday, November 20, 2025, as quoted by Antara.

Machmud noted that Indonesia is home to nearly 1,000 species of seaweed, making it one of the world’s richest sources. Beyond its role in food production, seaweed is increasingly used in non-food industries, from biodegradable straws to other sustainable products.

The Netherlands has already expressed interest in investing in Indonesia’s seaweed sector.

Salt is also emerging as a promising area. Machmud explained that Indonesia is targeting self-sufficiency in salt production by 2027, a policy that has sparked investor enthusiasm.

Seaweed has been designated by the ministry as one of its “champion commodities”. Nono Hartanto, Director of Seaweed at the Directorate General of Aquaculture, emphasized that global demand is projected to rise steadily.

By 2029, worldwide seaweed demand is expected to reach 40–43 million tons. Ready-to-eat food products are forecast to remain the largest category, accounting for more than half of total demand, while aquaculture feed and other uses are set to grow significantly. ***