JAKARTA - The fish canning industry is one of the sectors that still grow amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Because, the demand for processed products in the sector tends to increase, especially to meet the protein needs of the community.
"National stock of canned sardines and mackerel products currently amounts to 35 million cans. Besides being absorbed through the export, retail and online markets, processed canned fish can be used as one of the social assistance products that meet the protein needs of the community,” said Director General of Agro Industry at the Ministry of Industry Abdul Rochim in Jakarta, Friday (24/4).
The Ministry of Industry noted that up to now there are 718 fish processing business units spread across various regions of Indonesia. The total production of the fish processing sector reached 1.6 million tons in 2019, an increase of 300 thousand tons compared to 2016.
Despite its positive performance, the fish canning industry also faces various challenges to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. These challenges include an increase in the price of cans, sauces and thickening flour imported as well as a reduction in fish raw materials imported from countries that impose lockdowns. However, the Ministry of Industry projects that the food and beverage industry sector will continue to grow amid the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. (LM)