DENPASAR, DEWATA.NEWS – Bali is strengthening its marine and fisheries sector as authorities highlight the island’s vast ocean resources and shift focus toward aquaculture to support sustainable economic growth.
According to the Bali Marine and Fisheries Agency (DKP), the island has a sea area covering approximately 62 percent of its total territory, with a coastline stretching around 651 kilometers.
“Bali’s marine area accounts for about 62 percent of the region, making it a significant resource despite the island’s relatively small land size,” said DKP Bali Head I Putu Sumardiana on Friday (March 27).
The agency has mapped fisheries potential across coastal regions, identifying different key commodities in each area. In capture fisheries, Badung produces species such as yellowstripe scad, sardines, tuna, and lobster. Tabanan is known for ribbonfish, red snapper, grouper, and shrimp, while Jembrana and Buleleng contribute a wide range of fish including tuna, mackerel, squid, and reef fish.
Production data from 2024 shows strong outputs in several regions. Karangasem recorded one of the highest yields, particularly tongkol krai at over 20,000 tons. Denpasar also reported significant production, including skipjack tuna and yellowfin tuna.
Despite consistent production levels, capture fisheries remain influenced by seasonal conditions and weather patterns, which can limit fishing activity during certain periods.
To address this, the government is prioritizing aquaculture as a more stable and sustainable alternative. One example is milkfish farming in offshore areas of Gerokgak, Buleleng, which has recently completed its first harvest.
“Two weeks ago, we harvested around 3 tons of milkfish from offshore farming, and it was immediately absorbed by the market,” Sumardiana said.
The program has entered early downstream development stages, indicating progress in building a full production chain from cultivation to market distribution.
Traditionally, Bali has exported large quantities of milkfish fry, with shipments reaching over one million units per export, mainly to markets such as the Philippines. However, authorities are now encouraging a shift toward producing market-ready fish to increase economic value.
Aquaculture development is also expected to generate employment opportunities in coastal communities.
In addition to milkfish, Bali’s aquaculture sector includes commodities such as vannamei shrimp, catfish, tilapia, gourami, freshwater pomfret, and lobster, adapted to regional conditions. Jembrana leads in vannamei shrimp production, while Klungkung dominates seaweed cultivation.
Export demand for key commodities such as tuna, grouper, and milkfish fry remains strong, reflecting positive trends in Bali’s marine-based economy.
The government aims to continue expanding both capture and aquaculture sectors to strengthen food production, exports, and sustainable coastal livelihoods.