Poultry and hydroponic exports surge as Kepri steps into Singapore’s supply chain gap
The Riau Islands Province (Kepri) is emerging as a key player in Singapore’s food security strategy, seizing opportunities as Johor, Malaysia, prioritizes its domestic demand. Backed by Indonesia’s central government, Kepri is expanding poultry and hydroponic exports to meet the growing needs of its neighbor.
A Strategic Opportunity for Kepri
During a Sumatra regional meeting in Batam on September 21, Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian praised Kepri’s move into the Singapore export market. He urged other provincial leaders to follow suit, stressing that strong demand for poultry and hydroponic products presents a rare economic opportunity.
Government Support Through Export Hub
Governor Ansar Ahmad highlighted that the provincial government, in partnership with the Trade Ministry, has launched an Export Hub at Batam’s Public Service Mall. The hub acts as a gateway, connecting Kepri’s products with international buyers, especially Singapore’s Food Security Agency, which has held multiple discussions with local officials.
Rising Exports to Singapore
So far, Kepri has exported around 6,000 tons of hydroponic vegetables, though this supply currently serves only two to three malls in Singapore—an indicator of untapped growth potential. In addition, Bintan District has exported 1.5 million live chickens to Singapore malls, cementing the province’s role in the city-state’s food supply chain.
Expanding Cross-Border Cooperation
Governor Ansar noted that talks with Singapore’s Food Security Agency are ongoing to broaden the list of export commodities. The aim is to build sustainable partnerships where Kepri and Sumatra can serve as long-term suppliers for Singapore’s growing external food demand.
Regional Benefits Beyond Kepri
Minister Tito emphasized that Kepri’s success should inspire other regions across Sumatra to capture similar opportunities. By leveraging their agricultural resources and strategic location, provinces could increase revenue while strengthening Indonesia’s regional economic role.
Broader Economic Implications
For Singapore, shifting reliance from Johor to Kepri ensures stable food imports amid supply chain disruptions. For Indonesia, particularly the Riau Islands, it positions the province as a sustainable partner in regional trade, enhancing food security cooperation and economic resilience.
The rise of Riau Islands as a food supplier to Singapore reflects a broader realignment of regional trade. With Johor turning inward, Kepri’s poultry and hydroponic exports are strengthening cross-border ties, boosting Indonesia’s local economies, and supporting Singapore’s long-term food security strategy.
Sources: ANTARA News (2025) , VOI.ID (2025)
Keywords: Riau Islands, Singapore Food Market, Poultry Exports, Hydroponic Products, Johor Shift, Food Security Agency
