Marine Potential Behind Indonesia’s Dominance in the Tuna Industry

Indonesia has become one of the world’s largest tuna producers, supplying around 1.1 million tons annually, or roughly 15% of total global tuna output. This leading position is supported by the country’s strategic maritime geography and exceptional marine biodiversity.

Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean, Indonesia lies across two of the most productive tuna spawning grounds on earth. Its extensive coastlines and nutrient-rich waters allow various tuna species—such as skipjack, yellowfin, and bigeye—to thrive in abundance. In addition, most fishing activity occurs within Indonesia’s own Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), helping reduce operational costs and strengthen the nation’s fisheries self-sufficiency. These factors collectively underpin Indonesia’s dominance in global tuna production.

Technological Advancements Strengthening Indonesia’s Fishing Sector

Indonesia’s competitive edge extends beyond its natural advantages. The country also benefits from diverse, integrated fishing systems that ensure a stable year-round tuna supply. Fishing operations range from industrial fleets to medium-scale purse seine and longline vessels, as well as thousands of traditional boats employing sustainable methods such as pole-and-line and handline fishing.

Beyond meeting domestic demand, Indonesia exports tuna both in fresh and processed form to key international markets.

To maintain long-term sustainability, the government has implemented various policies, including regulated fishing zones, initiatives aligned with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) framework, traceability requirements, anti–illegal fishing regulations, and responsible management of skipjack and yellowfin stock levels.

Economic Impact of the Tuna Industry

The tuna industry plays a critical role in Indonesia’s coastal and island economies—supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs, generating billions of rupiah in export revenues, and driving the development of port and logistics infrastructure.

A strong fishing tradition, a large and diverse fleet, a steadily expanding processing industry, and consistent supply throughout the year have positioned Indonesia as a major hub in the international tuna supply chain. Its exceptionally productive waters further reinforce the country’s global leadership in the sector.

Publicly Listed Fisheries & Seafood Companies in Indonesia

Although no publicly traded company focuses exclusively on tuna, several Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX)—listed issuers operate in fisheries, seafood processing, and aquaculture—offering potential exposure for investors seeking opportunities in the marine and seafood value chain.

1. PT Dharma Samudera Fishing Industries Tbk. (DSFI): Engaged in the seafood supply chain—from fishing and raw material procurement to processing and export. Tuna constitutes part of its diversified product mix.

   
   

2. PT Central Proteina Prima Tbk. (CPRO): A major player in aquaculture, particularly shrimp farming, feed production, and hatchery operations. CP Prima represents the scale and growth potential of Indonesia’s seafood processing and aquaculture sector.

   
   

3. PT Indo American Seafoods Tbk. (ISEA): A newer entrant to the stock market, ISEA reflects the evolution of modern seafood processing businesses within Indonesia’s capital market landscape.

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Disclaimer: The content is made for educational purposes, not a recommendation to buy or sell a particular stock. PT KAF Sekuritas Indonesia is licensed and supervised by the Financial Services Authority (OJK).

Source:

[1] Martyasari Rizky, “Negosiasi KKP Sukses, Kuota Tangkapan Naik-RI Jadi Raja Tuna Dunia”, CNBC Indonesia, 30 April 2025.

[2] Erlangga Djumena, “Indonesia Produsen Tuna Nomor 1 di Dunia”, KOMPAS.com, 30 April 2025.