RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The Director General of National Export Development (PEN) at the Ministry of Trade, Fajarini Puntodewi, is leading intensive trade diplomacy to restore access for Indonesian edible bird’s nest exports to China.

The move follows the suspension of 18 national exporters after Chinese authorities reported aluminum levels exceeding the 100 ppm limit.

“We are also discussing the findings of the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), which detected aluminum content above the threshold in Indonesian bird’s nest products. This led to the suspension of 18 companies,” Puntodewi said in Jakarta on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.

She emphasized that the government is overseeing an internal audit of the entire production system. The suspended companies are expected to resume shipments of quality products to China once the verification process is complete.

Puntodewi added that transparent technical communication with the GACC is underway to ensure accountability in testing parameters. “These steps show that Indonesia’s bird’s nest industry is serious about maintaining its reputation in the international market. The government will continue to oversee this verification so the 18 companies can resume shipments to China as soon as possible,” she said.

China remains Indonesia’s largest market for edible bird’s nest, accounting for 80.15 percent of exports. However, shipments in 2025 fell 11.33 percent to USD 380.20 million. The decline continued in early 2026, with exports totaling USD 83.04 million between January and February, down 10.65 percent.

Director of Primary Product Export Development at the Ministry, Miftah Farid, said the suspension opens opportunities for other qualified exporters. He encouraged domestic businesses to fill the 300-ton gap in the export quota. “Companies that meet the qualifications should collaborate immediately to maintain Indonesia’s market share in China. This step is crucial to secure our position,” Miftah said.

The Chairman of the Indonesian Edible Bird’s Nest Entrepreneurs Association (PPSBI), Boedi Mranata, highlighted uncertainty over differing test results between Indonesia and China.

He urged improvements in production technology to control aluminum levels and meet international standards. “Products that pass testing in Indonesia may not necessarily pass in China, creating uncertainty for businesses. Harmonizing testing mechanisms is essential so results obtained in Indonesia can be recognized by China,” Boedi said.

Yan TyTy, one of China’s importers of Indonesian bird’s nest, expressed support for quality improvements. Its president, Li Li, pledged to assist with standard adjustments, process improvements, and meeting market needs.

She urged Indonesian exporters to consistently maintain quality standards and price stability. “Ensuring adequate supply will help high-quality Indonesian products enter the Chinese market more efficiently and strengthen competitiveness,” Li Li said. (Gusti Panji/Lasti Martina)