Vannamei shrimp, also known as whiteleg shrimp, has become a crown jewel of Indonesia’s aquaculture industry. With its fast growth, high survival rate, and strong global demand, this species now represents a massive export opportunity for the archipelago. But how exactly does this tiny crustacean make its journey from the tranquil ponds of Sulawesi or Java to dinner plates across the world? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Vannamei shrimp farming in Indonesia, exploring every stage—from pond to port.
And along the way, we’ll introduce CV Bonafide Anugerah Sentosa, a leading supplier of spices, seafood, and coconut-based products from Indonesia, trusted globally for quality and reliability.
A Rising Star: Why Vannamei Shrimp Dominates Indonesia’s Aquaculture
In the early 2000s, Vannamei shrimp started replacing black tiger prawns (Penaeus monodon) in Indonesian shrimp farms. Why? Simply put, Vannamei shrimp are easier to farm. They grow faster, require less protein in their feed, and are more resistant to diseases when managed properly. These characteristics helped Indonesia rapidly scale up production.
Indonesia is now one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of Vannamei shrimp, competing closely with countries like India, Vietnam, and Ecuador. The government has even launched initiatives to support Vannamei shrimp farming in Indonesia as part of its blue economy strategy. With favorable tropical climates, abundant coastal lands, and hardworking local communities, the industry has flourished.
Site Selection and Pond Preparation: Building the Shrimp’s First Home
Before anything can be harvested, it all starts with the pond. Selecting the right location is critical. Farmers look for areas with access to clean seawater, minimal industrial pollution, and good logistics for future export activities. Coastal areas in East Java, Lampung, and South Sulawesi are particularly popular.
Once a site is selected, the land is prepared. Farmers construct ponds using earthen walls lined with plastic or geomembrane to retain water quality. Drainage systems are installed, and paddlewheels are added to aerate the pond. The water is treated with lime and probiotics to balance pH and improve microbial health. This initial step ensures a healthy environment for the shrimp to thrive.
Stocking to Harvest: Nurturing Shrimp Through Every Growth Stage
After the pond is prepared, the real journey begins—stocking post-larvae (PL) shrimp. These baby shrimp, sourced from hatcheries, are usually stocked at a density ranging from 100 to 300 PL per square meter depending on the intensity of the farm system (traditional, semi-intensive, or intensive).
Farmers monitor the shrimp daily. Feeding schedules are fine-tuned with floating feeds rich in protein and essential nutrients. Water quality parameters—like dissolved oxygen, ammonia levels, and temperature—are closely watched. In many farms, digital sensors and apps are now used to help track data in real time, marking a shift toward smart aquaculture.
Harvesting typically takes place 90 to 120 days after stocking, depending on the target market size. Farmers drain the pond slowly, using nets to collect the mature shrimp. It’s a moment of pride, and often a community event, as the shimmering white shrimp are hauled out in large volumes, ready for the next phase of their journey.
Processing and Packaging: Meeting Global Quality Standards
Once harvested, the shrimp need to be processed quickly to preserve freshness. Most farms collaborate with certified processing plants that handle everything—cleaning, de-heading, deveining, freezing, and packaging.
Indonesia’s top exporters, including facilities working with CV Bonafide Anugerah Sentosa, follow strict hygiene protocols and adhere to international certifications such as HACCP, BRC, and ISO. Shrimp are often frozen within hours of harvest using IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) or block freezing techniques.
Depending on buyer preferences, the shrimp may be processed into head-on shell-on (HOSO), peeled and deveined (PD), or other value-added forms. Packaging is designed for long-distance shipping, with cold chain logistics ensuring the product remains in perfect condition until it reaches consumers abroad.
Exporting to the World: How Indonesian Shrimp Travels Across Borders
Indonesia exports Vannamei shrimp to markets around the world—especially the U.S., Japan, China, and the European Union. The process begins with customs documentation, export permits, and health certificates issued by Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP).
From the processing plant, shrimp are transported in refrigerated containers (reefers) to major ports like Tanjung Perak (Surabaya), Tanjung Priok (Jakarta), and Belawan (Medan). Exporters work with freight forwarders to ensure timely departure and compliance with each destination country’s regulations.
Logistics coordination is key. Even a short delay could affect product freshness or disrupt supply chains. That’s why trusted exporters like CV Bonafide Anugerah Sentosa play such an important role. Their commitment to quality and professionalism ensures that buyers receive shrimp that is fresh, safe, and sustainably produced.
Challenges and Innovations: The Future of Vannamei Shrimp Farming
Despite the growth, Vannamei shrimp farming in Indonesia faces several challenges. Disease outbreaks like White Spot Syndrome and Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS) still pose threats. Climate change also affects water salinity and temperature, which in turn impacts shrimp health and yields.
However, innovation is driving solutions. Farmers are adopting biofloc systems to recycle waste into feed, reduce water usage, and increase survival rates. Some are exploring Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), combining shrimp farming with seaweed or fish to create a more balanced ecosystem. Smart farming tools—like sensors and AI—are making decision-making more data-driven and efficient.
Government and private sector partnerships are supporting training programs and microfinancing to help small-scale farmers adopt these new methods. With the right investments and community support, Indonesia’s shrimp industry is on track to remain a global leader.
Trusted Exporters: CV Bonafide Anugerah Sentosa’s Role in the Supply Chain
When it comes to exporting quality Indonesian shrimp, CV Bonafide Anugerah Sentosa is a name that stands out. Based in Indonesia, the company has built a solid reputation as a trusted fishery supplier, spices exporter, and coconut product supplier.
In the seafood sector, they work closely with certified farms and processors to ensure only the highest quality Vannamei shrimp make it to the international market. Their team manages the entire supply chain—from sourcing and inspection to documentation and export logistics—making them a reliable partner for B2B buyers worldwide.
Beyond shrimp, CV Bonafide Anugerah Sentosa also supplies premium-grade spices like nutmeg, clove, and black pepper, as well as coconut derivatives like coconut water concentrate, virgin coconut oil, and coconut sugar. Their diverse product range and dedication to quality make them a one-stop solution for importers seeking the best of Indonesia.
Conclusion: Indonesia’s Shrimp, the World’s Delight
From carefully engineered ponds in coastal villages to processing plants and international ports, Vannamei shrimp farming in Indonesia is an impressive blend of tradition, technology, and teamwork. This thriving industry not only supports thousands of coastal families but also plays a vital role in feeding the world.
As global demand for sustainable seafood continues to grow, Indonesia is well-positioned to lead. And with experienced exporters like CV Bonafide Anugerah Sentosa paving the way, the journey from pond to port has never looked more promising. Contact CV Bonafide Anugerah Sentosa how we can provide the best solutions for you. WhatsApp: +62 8213 4505 737, Email: info@bonafideanugerahsentosa.com / bas.mdir@gmail.com.