Antara TV Indonesia
Tilapia, or better known as nila, has become one of Indonesia’s leading fishery commodities in the global market. This fish is very popular both in households and restaurants because of its affordable price, delicious taste, and high nutritional value. Unexpectedly, tilapia has great export potential and is now one of Indonesia’s mainstay commodities. Based on data from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), Indonesia has positioned itself as the fourth largest tilapia exporter in the world. During the 2017–2023 period, the export trend of this fish grew by an average of 7% per year, with an export value reaching USD 82 million in 2023, despite facing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Global Market Share and Export Strategy
Indonesia’s main tilapia export markets include the United States, Canada, and Taiwan. The United States alone absorbs 51% of the total global market share for this product, making it a priority export destination. In addition, countries such as the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the Asian and Middle Eastern regions have also shown high interest in tilapia from Indonesia. Indonesia’s advantages lie in its premium quality and the existence of ecolabel certification, which makes Indonesian tilapia more valuable than similar products from other countries, such as China.
The most popular tilapia products in the export market are frozen fillets and fresh whole fish. The export market demands fish sizes above 500 grams with disease-free quality, no earthy odor, and using high-quality feed. Meeting these strict standards is proof that Indonesian tilapia is able to compete in the international market.
Main Production Source: Lake Toba
Most of the tilapia for export comes from Lake Toba, North Sumatra. This area uses a floating net cage (KJA) system supported by the best fish farming practices (CBIB) and certification for the export market. In 2020, the contribution of tilapia from Lake Toba reached 91.66% of total national exports. With a lake area of around 1,145 km², only 0.4% is utilized for tilapia cultivation, making this cultivation practice sustainable and environmentally friendly. In addition to supporting exports, this cultivation effort has a positive impact on the local economy, especially for fish farmers around Lake Toba.
Technology Development and Innovation
To support production growth, the Indonesian government is developing a model area for saltwater tilapia cultivation in Karawang, West Java. This 84-hectare area uses a sustainable integration system with modern technology, such as automated feeding and HDPE coating. This area is expected to be an ideal example for the development of cultivation in coastal areas, while reducing pressure on the lake ecosystem.
In addition, the Center for Freshwater Aquaculture (BBPBAT) in Sukabumi, West Java, plays an important role in providing superior seeds. With biovlock-based hatchery technology, BBPBAT supports fish farmer communities to adopt household-scale cultivation methods, expanding the distribution reach of superior seeds throughout Indonesia.
Future Opportunities
The export prospects for Indonesian tilapia are very promising. In 2033, the global export value of tilapia is projected to reach USD 21.6 billion, providing a great opportunity for Indonesia to become a major world exporter. By continuing to improve quality, innovation, and strategic partnerships, Indonesia is ready to utilize this potential to strengthen the national economy and environmental sustainability.