Agricultural commodities originating from East Java have diversified their presence in international markets this year, driven by increased demand for ruminant supplements from Peru and live eels from China. This trend presents an opportunity for enhancing non-oil and gas export performance amidst a politically charged atmosphere and global economic challenges. As reported by the East Java Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Agency (BKHIT), ruminant exports to Peru were conducted via Tanjung Perak Port, Surabaya, on Monday, January 22, 2024. Similarly, live eel exports to China were facilitated through Juanda Surabaya Airport on Tuesday, January 23, 2024. Ruminants, commercial supplements derived from palm oil fatty acids for dairy cows, are commonly incorporated into dairy cattle diets to boost milk production. The export to Peru holds promising prospects due to the country's significant position as a global dairy cow producer. The inaugural export to Peru in 2024 amounted to 48 tons of products valued at IDR 512 million, transported via two 20-foot containers. Betty Fajarwati, Head of the East Java Quarantine Animal Working Group, highlighted that East Java is a major ruminant producer in Indonesia. The issuance of quarantine letters for ruminant exports to Peru marks the beginning of 2024, signifying compliance with Peruvian government regulations.
In addition to ruminant exports, the BKHIT of East Java exported live eels to meet market demands in China. A total of 90,000 live eels underwent health inspections at Juanda Airport before being shipped to China on January 23, 2024, after rigorous clinical and laboratory assessments to prevent quarantine fish disease. Furthermore, exporters are reminded by Muhlis Natsir, Head of BKHIT East Java, to consistently report agricultural and fisheries commodities to quarantine authorities before international shipment. Compliance enhances product value in the global market, supported by quarantine health certificates and trade facilitation through the Indonesian Quarantine Agency, as mandated by Presidential Regulation No. 45 of 2023. The Indonesian Quarantine Agency, operating under the direct authority of the President, is responsible for quarantine governance in alignment with the provisions of Law No. 21 of 2019 regarding Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine.
