At the onset of 2024, the Integrated Marine and Fisheries Center (Sentra Kelautan dan Perikanan Terpadu - SKPT) in Biak Nunfor, Papua, successfully exported seven tons of fresh tuna to Japan through the Frans Kaisiepo Biak International Airport on Wednesday (3/1). Effendi Igirisa, the Head of the Biak Numfor Fisheries Department, announced the export, emphasizing its significance in providing encouragement and motivation to the local fishermen for improved catch results in the new year. The export of fresh tuna from Biak to Japan at the beginning of 2024 is expected to boost the spirits of the local fishing community. Effendi highlighted the promising demand for fresh tuna from Biak in Japan and expressed confidence in SKPT Biak's ability to meet these demands. Effendi acknowledged the continuous efforts of the Fisheries Department in promoting and increasing the export of fresh tuna to Japan. The focus is on enhancing the quantity to meet the growing demand in the Japanese market.

Yellowfin tuna, specifically the yellowfin tuna species known as "tuna sirip kuning," is highly favored in Japan due to its essential fatty acid content. The yellowfin tuna is valued for its benefits in skin maintenance, body detoxification, alleviating chronic diseases, and enhancing the immune system. The waters around Biak, falling within the Indonesian Exclusive Economic Zone (WPPNRI 717), have a substantial potential yellowfin tuna stock ranging from 800,000 to 1.1 million tons annually. The estimated foreign exchange earnings from this yellowfin tuna potential in Biak's fishing grounds reach IDR 17 trillion. In conclusion, the successful export of seven tons of fresh tuna from Biak to Japan signifies a positive start for the region in 2024. The commitment to meeting Japanese demand and the recognition of the health benefits of yellowfin tuna position Biak as a key player in the global tuna market.

Source: https://www.antaranews.com/berita/3897810/skpt-biak-ekspor-ikan-tuna-segar-tujuh-ton-ke-jepang