BRIN Aims to Boost Maritime GDP to 15% by 2045 through Blue Economy Initiatives

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is intensifying its initiatives to raise the maritime sector’s contribution to the national GDP to 15 percent by 2045 and generate 12 percent of employment within this industry. In pursuit of these goals, BRIN recently organized a focus group discussion (FGD) on the theme “Blue Economy: Development and Utilization of Seaweed and Salt Potential.”

Deputy for Research and Innovation Utilization at BRIN, R. Hendrian, emphasized that adopting a blue economy approach could substantially enhance GDP from maritime activities, which currently stands at 7.9 percent. He noted that challenges remain in improving the livelihoods of coastal communities, particularly in seaweed and salt cultivation hubs, where traditional practices and trade barriers are impacting product quality and pricing.

Despite Indonesia’s robust seaweed production of 9 million tons annually, the sector has yet to yield significant economic benefits for coastal populations. Hendrian highlighted the need for technological advancement and trade support to boost productivity and add value to local commodities.

In response, BRIN has proposed a cross-sector collaboration model, engaging various stakeholders, including ministries, local governments, the Regional Research and Innovation Agency (BRIDA), universities, entrepreneurs, and indigenous communities. This partnership aims to address technological, economic, and cultural challenges to uplift the maritime economy inclusively and sustainably.

The FGD provided a platform for exchanging strategies that prioritize marine ecosystem sustainability while enhancing the economic value of Indonesia’s marine resources.