Video: Rising Plastic Prices and Shipping Costs, Tuna Exports Hit by War Effects

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has recorded a 41% decline in Indonesia’s fish export volumes from January to early Eid 2026, amounting to USD 983.1 million or Rp 16.7 trillion, due to the Middle East war involving the United States (US), Israel, and Iran. For the tuna sector, the Chairman of the Indonesian Tuna Association, Saut P Hutagalung, stated that the Middle East conflict will impact the tuna industry, affecting both fishermen and exporters. The rise in fuel prices, which constitute 60% of fishing costs, is causing margins for fishermen and exporters to plummet, while packaging materials, which heavily rely on plastic, will further squeeze the tuna business. On the other hand, shipping or freight costs have also surged by around 30% due to global uncertainties, impacting Indonesia’s tuna business despite strong demand in Asia, particularly. What is the impact of the war on Indonesian tuna exporters? For more details, watch the dialogue between Andi Shalini and the Chairman of the Indonesian Tuna Association, Saut P Hutagalung, on Squawk Box, CNBC Indonesia (Monday, 13/04/2026).