Indonesia is known as one of the main exporters of fish products, including frozen tilapia which is in demand in various parts of the world. The eight main countries that are the destinations for Indonesian fish exports in 2023 are the United States, Canada, the European Union, Mexico, Taiwan, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Thailand.
Frozen Indonesian fish products are in high demand because of their high quality, their processing meets international standards, and are supported by sustainable cultivation practices. One of the companies that plays a major role is Regal Springs Indonesia, an internationally certified tilapia exporter such as the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC).
Below, we discuss in more depth how tilapia has become part of the consumption culture in each of the main export destination countries.
1. Amerika Serikat
This country is the largest export destination, absorbing around 59% of Indonesia’s total tilapia exports. In this country, tilapia is a very popular fish because it is considered a healthy choice at an affordable price. Many fast food restaurants to casual restaurants in America use tilapia as the main ingredient for menus such as fish tacos or grilled fish. The culture of eating fish in the United States is influenced by various ethnic communities, especially from Asia and Latin America, who make tilapia part of their signature dishes.
2. Kanada
As the second largest market, Canada absorbs around 20% of Indonesia’s tilapia exports. Canadian consumers have a fish-eating culture that is closely related to a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. Fish is often used as a daily menu, either in the form of grilled fish, fish soup such as chowder, or fried fillets with special spices. In addition, Canadian society’s concern for sustainability makes tilapia products that are produced responsibly in high demand.
3. Uni Eropa
This region absorbs around 8% of Indonesia’s tilapia exports. The European Union is a region with a high per capita fish consumption rate. In countries such as Spain, France, and Germany, fish is an important part of traditional cuisine. Tilapia fillets are often used in dishes such as paella, bouillabaisse, or grilled fish served with fresh vegetables. The European Union is also known for its strict standards for fish products, so frozen fish that meets quality and sustainability requirements is always in demand.
4. Meksiko
Mexico is the next market, absorbing almost 4% of Indonesia’s tilapia exports. Fish is an important part of Mexican culinary culture, with tilapia often processed into ceviche, fish tacos, or grilled fish with spicy sauce. Fish consumption in Mexico is not only part of the tradition, but also reflects a healthy lifestyle that is increasingly popular among urban communities.
5. Taiwan
A country with an export share of around 2%, Taiwan is a country that has a close relationship with seafood. The culture of eating fish in Taiwan is very strong, with fish being a symbol of good luck and prosperity in local traditions. Tilapia is often served as steamed fish with simple seasonings such as ginger and garlic, or fried with a typical Taiwanese sweet and sour sauce.
6. Singapura
Although Singapore only absorbs around 2% of total exports, the country has a strategic market due to its position as a trade and culinary hub in Southeast Asia. Singaporeans have a rich culinary tradition, with fish often used in multicultural dishes such as fish head curry, fish soup, or Chinese dishes such as steamed fish with soy sauce.
7. Inggris
The UK, which receives almost 2% of Indonesia’s tilapia exports, is known for traditional dishes such as fish and chips. While cod and haddock are the main choices, tilapia is increasingly sought after as a healthy alternative. In addition, UK consumers have also shown a high interest in products that are certified sustainable, making tilapia an ideal choice for this market.
8. Thailand
Thailand absorbs about 1.5% of Indonesia’s tilapia exports. The country has a rich food culture with a variety of fish. Dishes such as pla tod nam pla (fried fish with fish sauce) or pla sam rot (three-flavored fried fish) often use tilapia. In addition to household needs, tilapia is also widely used by the hotel and restaurant industry in Thailand.
Regal Springs Indonesia as Tilapia Export Driver
As one of the largest exporters of tilapia in Indonesia, Regal Springs Indonesia plays a vital role in meeting the global demand for high-quality fish products. With international certification and a commitment to sustainability, Regal Springs Indonesia has successfully penetrated several global markets.
Through collaboration with the government and other business actors, Regal Springs Indonesia has demonstrated that Indonesian fish products are able to compete in the international market, support economic growth, and bring pride to the nation.
