Indonesia's seaweed industry has been expanding rapidly as Chinese partnerships support investment, technology, and market access.
On the country's Sulawesi Island, seaweed farming has long been a way of life. Now, it is becoming a gateway to bring Indonesia's local products to the global market.
"This work is helping thousands of families. We used to live in stilt houses, now we live in brick ones. Our children can go to college. All of this is because of seaweed farming. It's truly incredible. Our lives have changed," said Burhanuddin, a seaweed farmer.
Thanks to unique geographical conditions, seaweed farming has become a vital source of income on the island.
"Seaweed from Sulawesi is very sought after in China because this seaweed is only found in tropical regions. Indonesia is one of the world's largest producers of tropical seaweed, and we have the highest quality," said Fatoni Sumariyo, an expert with the Association of Seaweed Farmers and Entrepreneurs.
China is Indonesia's biggest buyer of seaweed, with its uses in food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals driving demand.
The cooperation between Indonesia and China also includes discussions on price standardization, which is crucial for small-scale farmers in the country.
"In the future, our hope is not just exporting raw materials. We hope that future collaboration with China can include local seaweed processing. That way, the industry becomes more sustainable for our farmers," said Sumariyo.
The cooperation with China is expected to empower coastal villages' trade and give local villagers access to new tools, technology, better prices and stronger competitiveness in international markets.
China drives demand in Indonesia's seaweed trade, boosting farmers' incomes
