Indonesian Tilapia Emerges as Key Export Commodity

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Demand for Indonesian tilapia continues to rise in international markets, with the United States and Europe now serving as primary export destinations.

Director of Marketing at the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries’ Directorate General for Strengthening the Competitiveness of Marine and Fisheries Products, Erwin Dwiyana, said tilapia is increasingly favored by global consumers for its light, tender flesh and ease of preparation. Known as the “chicken of the sea,” the fish contains about 20–29 grams of protein per 100-gram serving.

In addition to its high protein content, tilapia is low in saturated fat and rich in omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and minerals, making it competitive with other whitefish in the global market. “Currently, tilapia is our export commodity with zero rejection,” Erwin said in Jakarta on Monday, May 18, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He noted that this success is supported by international certifications, including Good Manufacturing Practices–Sanitation Standard Operating Procedure (GMP-SSOP), Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), health certificates, ISO 22000, Safe Quality Food (SQF), Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP), Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), and British Retail Consortium (BRC). These standards ensure Indonesian tilapia is accepted without hindrance in export destinations.

One leading national producer, Regal Springs Indonesia, has even supplied the renowned British pub chain, Greene King. Indonesian tilapia is processed into a variety of dishes, ranging from fish and chips to boneless offerings for fine dining.

“With ASC certification, aquaculture is required to transform. Everything is measured, recorded, and evaluated. From water management and feeding to maintaining fish health and welfare,” said Tri Dharma Saputra, Director of Regal Springs Indonesia.

Tri emphasized that this transformation makes Indonesian tilapia not only superior in quality but also sustainable and eco-friendly. In terms of price, the fish is considered competitive compared to other whitefish, enabling it to rival established commodities such as cod and trout.

Marine Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono said the ministry is promoting increased Nile tilapia production to meet global demand. Efforts include developing a saltwater tilapia aquaculture area (BINS) in Karawang, West Java, and revitalizing ponds along the North Coast of Java.

“These two programs aim to boost national Nile tilapia production capacity while ensuring the entire farming process meets international standards,” said Minister Trenggono. ***