Indonesia to build 1,582 new fishing vessels by 2028 to modernise maritime industry

Indonesia’s commercial fishing fleet is set to be modernised and expanded with 1,582 new fishing vessels by 2028. The initiative aims to increase catches through new technology and strengthen the economy of coastal regions as part of the implementation of the national maritime sector development programme. This was announced by Indonesia’s Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, as reported by ANTARA.

The fleet renewal programme will begin with the construction of 50 vessels in 2026. The government is currently working out a plan for the supply of materials and equipment, as well as assessing the readiness of shipyards across the country.

According to the minister, around 1,000 vessels will have a carrying capacity of 30 tonnes. These will be used in the programme to modernise fishing villages.

It is expected that the arrival of new vessels will stimulate the expansion of fishing grounds, increase catches and boost the incomes of coastal communities across the archipelago.

As noted by the ministry, the fleet renewal has become necessary to boost productivity and strengthen Indonesia’s shipbuilding industry through full-scale local production.

The government is accelerating the implementation of a strategic national programme for the development of coastal villages. The plan is to create 5,000 modern fishing villages by 2029, equipped with the infrastructure necessary to improve the efficiency of the fish product distribution chain.

Docks, roads and refuelling stations for fishermen are being built in the villages. There are plans to construct ice-making plants and cold stores in the villages to boost their economic efficiency.