The worlds largest producer of tropical seaweed hydrocolloids, under the coordination of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF), supported by SMART-Fish Program of UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) will participating in SIAL InterFood Hall C2 Booth Number E018-C Jakarta International Expo, Kemayoran, Jakarta on 21-24 November 2018. The Indonesia Seaweed Industry Association (ASTRULI) act as the umbrella for the Indonesia seaweed industry and will launch the brand Indonesia Seaweed at the main stage Hall B2 on Friday, November 23rd, 10.00-11.00 Jakarta time.

Indonesia is well-known as worlds largest seaweeds cultivation. Most of these seaweeds exported to other countries but only few know that Indonesia also manufactured high-quality Agar, semi-refined Carrageenan, refined Carrageenan as well as Alkali Treated Cottonii Chips and Alkali Treated Gracilaria.

The participation at SIAL InterFood and the launch of the Indonesia Seaweed brand is the starting point of opening larger international market for Indonesian High-Quality Hydrocolloids. ASTRULI, together with leading Indonesia Seaweed processors as their members, are ready to present themselves to the world. SIAL InterFood was chosen based on its high potential as a gateway to export business.

Sudari Pawiro from SMARTFish Indonesia, explains: "UNIDO through SMARTFish Program has strongly supported Indonesia Seaweed industry to be more competitive in the global market. Despite abundant in resourcing seaweed, exporting of extract seaweed products such as carrageenan, the export number of Indonesia is still below other seaweed suppliers such as China and The Philippines. SMART-Fish program closely working with ASTRULI members and the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) in introducing productive farming methods in main production centers in various places, improving efficiency in processing, piloting Seaweed Trace (external traceability) together with 8 seaweed companies involving more than 3000 seaweed farmers and developing Indonesia Seaweed Brand. With these efforts, we believe Indonesia Seaweed processors will be able to offer better and consistent quality, sustainable and traceable products to international buyers.

Being asked why Indonesia Seaweed is branded as Natural Binding Solutions to the World, McDonny the Chairman of ASTRULI explains: There are numerous reasons why we consider Indonesia Seaweed as natural binding solutions to the world. The buyers will get the product straight from the source of 75% of global tropical seaweed production. And, moreover, Indonesia have internationally operating processors who provide high quality hydrocolloids Agar and (semi) refined carrageenan. Compliance with International food safety standards, enhanced product traceability and low carbon food print due to short supply chain. Last but not least, the price stability and social responsibility to the farmers and local communities. If you want to discover more benefits of Indonesia Seaweed and meet the suppliers, come and meet us at the SIAL InterFood show. We are happy to welcome you at the brand launching and network event at SIAL.