Fisheries

APRI Strengthens Sustainable Blue Swimming Crab Fisheries Through Fishing Gear Swap in Cirebon

Thursday, 13 November 2025 — Cirebon, West Java. The Indonesian Blue Swimming Crab Association (APRI) continues to advance sustainable and traceable blue swimming crab fisheries through another official distribution of bubu fishing gear to local crab fishers in Cirebon Regency. This initiative represents a concrete step toward more responsible fishing practices and long-term marine resource protection.

This activity is part of APRI’s ongoing commitment to support Indonesia’s transition toward sustainable fisheries and strengthen the traceability of blue swimming crab supply chains across coastal regions.

Supporting the MMPA Transition

In accordance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) requirement mandating the use of bubu traps, APRI continues to encourage the transformation of fishing gear across Indonesia. The Fishing Gear Swap program is expected to secure the continuity of Indonesia’s blue swimming crab supply chain while protecting marine ecosystems for future generations.

Government Collaboration for Long-Term Sustainability

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), is also accelerating the fulfillment of required supporting documents and compliance processes. This collaborative step demonstrates the government’s positive response in ensuring that Indonesia’s blue swimming crab industry remains competitive, traceable, and sustainable at the global level.

Strengthening Sustainability and Global Market Access

Blue Swimming Crab (Portunus pelagicus) is among Indonesia’s most valuable fisheries commodities, especially for export markets. By shifting from gillnets to bubu traps, the industry minimizes bycatch—including interactions with marine mammals—while improving resource management.

The Fishing Gear Swap initiative is expected to:

improve fishing traceability

support MMPA compliance

protect marine mammal populations

strengthen supply chain sustainability

secure long-term export access for Indonesian blue swimming crab

This program also contributes to broader marine conservation efforts while maintaining local fishermen’s livelihoods through better, safer, and more sustainable fishing methods.