Government

Indonesia Strengthens MMPA Compliance: MMAF Meets with NFI-USA and APRI to Support Sustainable Blue Swimming Crab Exports

October 16, 2025 – The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries of Indonesia (MMAF) held a strategic meeting with the National Fisheries Institute (NFI) – USA and the Indonesian Blue Swimming Crab Association (APRI) to reinforce commitments related to the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and ensure the continuity of Indonesia’s blue swimming crab exports to the United States.

The meeting was attended by key figures including Lisa Wallenda Picard, President of NFI, and Robert A. DeHaan, Vice President of NFI, who expressed their strong support for Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to enhance sustainability, marine mammal protection, and supply chain traceability in its fisheries sector.

As one of the world’s largest exporters of blue swimming crab, Indonesia plays a critical role in the global seafood supply chain. Compliance with the MMPA, a regulation administered by NOAA, is essential to maintain access to the U.S. market. This law requires exporting nations to demonstrate that their fisheries minimize bycatch of marine mammals to levels comparable with U.S. standards.