The Kementerian Kelautan dan Perikanan (KKP) of Indonesia is making concerted efforts to boost the export of fisheries products, with recent initiatives aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and ensuring compliance with international quality standards.
To expand the market for Indonesian fisheries across the Americas, KKP is collaborating closely with the Canadian Embassy. This partnership follows the conclusion of the Indonesia-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (ICA CEPA) negotiations in June 2024, which has opened up new possibilities for Indonesian seafood products.
According to Ishartini, head of KKP's Quality Agency, "Perundingan ICA CEPA telah final pada Juni tahun lalu, dan ini adalah momentum bagi sektor perikanan untuk dapat memanfaatkan benefitnya terutama dari bidang SPS," she stated. This agreement marks a significant moment for the fisheries sector, allowing Indonesia to leverage SPS (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) measures, which are pivotal for maintaining export quality.
The KKP has actively engaged since 2022 in negotiations and discussions to facilitate trade and establish strong export frameworks. By addressing key areas such as technical barriers to trade (TBT) and sustainable development as part of the agreement, KKP is positioning Indonesia favorably within the global marketplace.
But how exactly is this being accomplished? One major step has been the integration of two important certification processes: the Sertifikat Kelayakan Pengolahan (SKP) and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP). Ishartini explained, "Kementerian Kelautan dan Perikanan menghadirkan kemudahan ekspor produk kelautan dan perikanan dengan integrasi SKP dan HACCP ini." This integration streamlines requirements for exporters, ensuring they meet both domestic and international standards.
The SKP is based on the implementation of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and serves as a prerequisite for HACCP certification, which is increasingly required by importing countries. KKP has embraced technology so businesses can now apply for SKP and HACCP online via the One Stop Service (OSS) system. Local representatives of KKP help verify documents and conduct site visits as needed to facilitate this process.
A practical example of this initiative can be seen in West Kalimantan, where KKP has implemented comprehensive services across the export supply chain. Ishartini emphasized the importance of having inspectors on the ground who can verify compliance with HACCP protocols and standards for various fisheries products.
For provinces like Maluku Utara, facilities are being established to cater to exporters who need assistance with compliance. Here, KKP’s technical units focus on inspecting fresh and frozen seafood products, including tuna, crab, and lobster, to uphold high quality and safety standards required for export.
Recent inspections conducted by the quality control teams demonstrate KKP’s proactive approach to ensuring compliance. Thamrin, the Head of Quality Control Unit for Southeast Sulawesi, reported, "Inspektur Mutu fokus pada penilaian terhadap pemenuhan persyaratan standar prosedur operasi sanitasi; program ketelusuran produk; prosedur penanganan keluhan pelanggan; serta pelatihan karyawan." These steps are integral to building trust among foreign importers and ensuring the success of Indonesian seafood on the international stage.
Overall, these initiatives reflect KKP’s commitment to enhancing the export potential of Indonesia’s fisheries sector. By integrating processes, forming strategic partnerships, and maintaining rigorous quality standards, Indonesia is gearing up to make significant strides in its fisheries exports.