“One of the firms that has already confirmed its plans to relocate its factory is Itochu,” said Susi at her office in Jakarta as reported kompas.com, adding that Itochu’s commitment was conveyed during her recent visit to Japan.

Susi did not mention the other firms that had expressed interest in constructing factories in Indonesia, but she said those fish-processing companies already knew that currently Indonesia had an overwhelming level of fish production.

In addition to the tough measures against illegal fishing, the government has also prohibited transshipment practices in Indonesian waters. The two policies are expected to help Indonesia prevent the theft of its fish resources.

Another benefit of the relocation of Japanese firms to Indonesia, Susi added, was that Japanese business people might help Indonesia decrease tariff barriers set by the Japanese government.

“Japan does not impose tariffs on processed-fish from Thailand, but it imposes a 7 percent tariff on Indonesian products. They (Japanese business people) will demand their government remove the tariff, otherwise it will impact their profits,” Susi added.

The minister said Itochu would also expand its business in Indonesia though its subsidiary, PT Aneka Tuna, as it eyed the Indonesian market. (bbn)

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