Strategic location and strong demand help Batam’s seafood industry target Rp250 billion this year

Batam’s fish export industry is on track for a record-breaking year, having secured Rp129 billion (approx. SGD10.3 million) in export value during the first half of 2025. Strong international demand and efficient export infrastructure continue to boost the city’s maritime economy.

Exports Reach Half-Year Target

According to the Batam City Fisheries Office, the city exported 3,275.18 tons of fish from January to June 2025, valued at Rp129 billion—just over 51% of its Rp250 billion annual target. Head of the department, Yudi Admajianto, expressed confidence that the full-year goal will be achieved if current trends hold.

“This year’s numbers are encouraging. We’re seeing strong demand and improving export performance,” said Yudi on July 30, 2025.

Monthly Export Performance

• January: 490.75 tons (Rp22.11 billion)
• February: 522.39 tons (Rp23.56 billion)
• March: 558.22 tons (Rp24.09 billion, highest)
• April: 525.56 tons (Rp18.15 billion)
• May: 662.83 tons (Rp22.80 billion)
• June: 515.43 tons (Rp18.23 billion)

Despite April and May seeing slight volume dips due to adverse weather, overall momentum remains positive. The sector’s resilience is supported by strong demand, particularly from Singapore—the primary destination for Batam’s fish exports.

High-Value Species Dominate

Batam’s exports consist mainly of premium species such as snapper, grouper, sagai, lebam, crabs, and lobsters. These are favored in international markets due to their quality and freshness. Yudi noted that Batam’s geographic proximity to Singapore and its modern port facilities offer a clear logistical advantage.

“Proximity and infrastructure are key factors that enhance our product competitiveness,” Yudi explained.

Challenges From Seasonal Weather

Though optimistic, the Fisheries Office acknowledges looming challenges, particularly during the northern monsoon from October to December, which typically reduces fish catches due to rough seas.

To mitigate this, traditional fishermen often turn to alternative sources like sea cucumbers, shrimp, or aquaculture. Meanwhile, the government supports the formation of Kelompok Usaha Bersama (KUB)—cooperative savings groups that help fishers remain financially stable during off-seasons.

Government Support and Export Readiness

The local government continues to focus on quality assurance and business readiness through training, certification, and support for local fishers and businesses. The Fisheries Office is also expanding human resource development to help fishers meet evolving international standards.

“We’re committed to helping our fishers adapt to global market demands,” said Yudi.

Positive Outlook for Year-End

With more than half the annual export target already achieved by June, and Singapore maintaining its position as Batam’s key trading partner, the outlook remains strong. In 2024, Batam recorded Rp232.68 billion in seafood exports—an achievement likely to be surpassed in 2025.

Batam’s thriving fish export industry highlights the strategic value of maritime trade in Indonesia’s economy. By leveraging geography, infrastructure, and international demand—especially from Singapore—the city is poised to further boost its fisheries sector, offering sustainable growth opportunities for local communities and the broader region.

Sources: Batam Pos (2025) , Gokepri.com (2025)

Keywords: Batam Fish Export, Seafood Market, Singapore Trade, Maritime Economy, Fisheries Development, Export Growth