East Kalimantan Launches Three Fishery Downstreaming Strategies to Boost Exports

The East Kalimantan Maritime and Fisheries Agency (DKP Kaltim) has introduced three key strategies to enhance the value-added of local fishery products, aiming to boost exports and foster sustainable regional economic growth. Agency head Irhan Hukmaidy announced the integrated approach, which spans from upstream to downstream, to ensure regional fishery commodities possess strong competitiveness in the global market.

The first strategy focuses on strengthening the upstream sector. This involves implementing Good Aquaculture Practices (CBIB) to ensure consistent raw material supply. The agency is also developing "cultivation villages" tailored to specific commodities, such as grouper in Berau Regency, and tilapia and catfish in Kutai Kartanegara and Penajam Paser Utara.

Secondly, DKP Kaltim will provide regular technical guidance to Fish Cultivator Groups (Pokdakan). This aims to help them adopt semi-intensive systems or more productive modern technologies. The agency will also facilitate the issuance of Processing Feasibility Certificates (SKP) to help local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) penetrate modern retail networks and export markets.

The third strategy prioritizes accelerating infrastructure and logistics. This includes optimizing the provision of cold chain facilities, such as ice factories and cold storage, to maintain product freshness and quality. Organic windu shrimp has emerged as East Kalimantan's flagship export product due to high international demand for its natural cultivation methods. To mitigate disease risks, DKP Kaltim has established a dedicated monitoring team involving several related regional government organizations. Additionally, capital support is provided through quality seed assistance to farmer groups, and efforts are underway to revive the seaweed sector through collaboration with Mulawarman University and the introduction of superior seed varieties from Takalar, South Sulawesi.

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The goal is for regional fishery commodities to have high competitiveness in the global market.