In a strategic move to elevate the region’s economic potential, the Provincial Government of West South Papua (Papua Barat Daya), in collaboration with Bank Indonesia and national maritime agencies, has launched a comprehensive initiative to bolster the fisheries industry. This collaboration is designed to strengthen infrastructure, certification processes, and export readiness, aiming to position the province as a significant player in Indonesia’s maritime economy.
Export-Driven Vision for Local Fisheries
With abundant marine resources, particularly high-value species such as tuna and grouper, West South Papua is now actively building an ecosystem that supports fishery exports. The local government, through the Department of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, has announced plans to construct new cold storage facilities and ice factories with capacities ranging from 100 to 300 tons in key locations such as Sorong, Fakfak, and Kaimana.
The Sorong Arar Port is also undergoing revitalization, intended to become a major export gateway for processed fishery products. According to provincial officials, the port will handle both domestic and international shipments, reducing post-harvest losses and accelerating delivery timelines.
Bank Indonesia’s Role: Economic Acceleration and Export Access
Bank Indonesia (BI), through its Papua Barat and West South Papua offices, is playing a pivotal role in supporting the region’s fishery sector development. BI has initiated the “Acceleration of Fisheries Exports” program, which connects local producers with international buyers and helps streamline the financial systems necessary for export trade.
In addition, BI is providing assistance in digitizing transactions, encouraging non-cash payment ecosystems within fishing communities, and working with regional authorities to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through export-oriented financial literacy training.
BI Papua Barat Head, Edward Dewangga, emphasized that the initiative not only targets increased export volume but also aims to reduce regional inflation by improving local supply chains and supporting economic resilience.
Quality Certification for Global Standards
A critical component of the export push involves meeting international food safety and quality standards. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), through the Fisheries Quality Control and Processing Safety Agency (BKIPM) in Papua Barat and West South Papua, is actively implementing certification programs such as the SKP (Processing Eligibility Certificate) and HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point).
Using integrated online platforms, the agency now streamlines the verification process, conducting inspections at local fish processing units to ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), sanitation standards, and critical safety checkpoints. These efforts are essential to satisfy the regulatory demands of major export destinations such as Japan, China, Singapore, and the EU.
Community-Based Development and Training
Beyond infrastructure and regulation, the local government is committed to empowering communities. Fisherfolk and small business operators are receiving training on post-harvest handling, cold chain management, and sustainable fishing techniques. Special attention is being paid to the inclusion of indigenous Papuan communities, ensuring that they can benefit equitably from the sector’s growth.
Furthermore, collaborations with universities, vocational training centers, and NGOs are being formed to introduce innovation and technology to traditional fishing methods, supporting eco-friendly practices and long-term resource sustainability.
Export Logistics and Customs Readiness
The Regional Customs Office in Manokwari is also supporting the initiative by facilitating the export clearance process and reducing administrative burdens for exporters. They’ve partnered with logistics firms to ensure that fishery products from remote islands can be collected, processed, and shipped efficiently.
Sorong is being positioned as a central consolidation hub, where fish caught from areas such as Raja Ampat and South Sorong can be processed and routed through improved infrastructure.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Despite the progress, several challenges remain:
- Infrastructure Gaps: Many coastal areas still lack reliable electricity and road access, affecting the freshness and transport of fishery products.
- Capacity Building: There is an ongoing need to train local fishers in digital systems, environmental compliance, and international trade regulations.
- Market Diversification: Expanding beyond traditional export destinations will require active promotion and bilateral trade diplomacy.
However, these challenges are met with growing optimism as the collaborative framework gains momentum.
Conclusion
The coordinated efforts between the Government of West South Papua, Bank Indonesia, KKP, and local communities mark a significant step forward in unlocking the province’s blue economy potential. With a strong focus on infrastructure, certification, and community development, the region is on track to become a hub for high-quality, sustainable fishery exports. The initiative not only promises economic gains but also serves as a model for inclusive and environmentally conscious development in Indonesia’s eastern provinces.
