Indonesia Strengthens Shrimp Export Quality through KKP-Bapeten Collaboration

Enhanced Certification Process for Cs-137 Compliance

The Indonesian Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has entered into a significant collaboration with the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency (Bapeten) to ensure that Indonesian shrimp exports are certified free from Cesium-137 (Cs-137), a radioactive contaminant. This partnership is crucial for maintaining Indonesia's compliance with the stringent requirements set by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for shrimp imports.

Scope of Cooperation

The collaboration between KKP and Bapeten encompasses several key areas:

1. Control and monitoring of radioactive contamination in marine and fishery products
2. Scanning and testing for radioactive contaminants
3. Data and information exchange between the two agencies
4. Human resource capacity building to enhance technical capabilities
5. Infrastructure support to ensure compliance with international standards

Significance for Indonesian Shrimp Exports

The certification process is particularly important for shrimp originating from Lampung and Java, which are major production centers. By obtaining the Cs-137 free certification, Indonesian shrimp exporters can ensure smoother exports to the United States, one of the key markets for Indonesian seafood products. The collaboration between KKP and Bapeten not only enhances the credibility of Indonesian shrimp but also supports the country's efforts to maintain and expand its market share in the global seafood trade.

Regulatory Context

The United States FDA, through Section 801(q) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, requires certification for certain food products, including shrimp, to be free from radioactive contaminants like Cs-137. By designating KKP as a Certifying Entity (CE), the FDA has entrusted Indonesia with the authority to issue these critical certifications, underscoring the country's commitment to meeting international quality and safety standards.