Indonesian jackfruit has experienced a surge in popularity in the European market, becoming a fruit that is not only delicious but also multifunctional. As a category of perishable export products, jackfruit offers an increasingly sought-after exotic taste. This phenomenon is closely linked to the rising numbers of vegetarians in Europe, who are seeking meat substitutes. But can Indonesian jackfruit carve out a place in the European market? This article will delve deeper into how jackfruit exports from Indonesia have grown and their future potential.
Export Data and Facts of Jackfruit
In 2023, the export value of Indonesian jackfruit increased by 12% compared to the previous year. The total export value reached USD 24.5 million with a volume of 43,000 tons. This increase was driven by several factors, including:
Growing global demand for jackfruit, especially in countries like China, Vietnam, and the United States.
Efforts by the Indonesian government to enhance the promotion and export of horticultural products, including jackfruit, through various activities such as trade fairs and trade missions.
Diversification of jackfruit export markets to new countries, such as Japan and Malaysia.
The main export destinations for Indonesian jackfruit in 2023 were China, Vietnam, the United States, Japan, and Malaysia.
Potential of Indonesian Jackfruit Export
Indonesia, as a tropical country with abundant biodiversity, has great potential to increase jackfruit exports to various countries. This is because in countries like Europe, the United States, and some countries in Asia with four seasons, jackfruit tends to be difficult to grow. Indonesia stands out as a country blessed with abundant jackfruit because it can grow and bear fruit throughout the year without being affected by seasons. As a commodity used as a meat substitute, the demand for jackfruit as a raw material for restaurants is highly promising, opening up export opportunities for local farmers in Indonesia.
Indonesian Jackfruit and Its Popularity in Europe
Why is Indonesian jackfruit so popular in Europe? The answer lies in the increasing number of vegetarians on this continent. The number of vegans in Europe has significantly increased from 2022 to 2023. In the UK, there are 750,000 vegans (a 25% increase), representing 1.1% of the population. In Germany, the vegan population increased from 1.3 million in 2022 to 1.6 million in 2023 (a 23% increase), representing 2% of the population. In France, there were 500,000 vegans in 2022 and 600,000 in 2023 (a 20% increase), representing 0.9% of the population. In Italy, the vegan population increased from 3 million in 2022 to 3.6 million in 2023 (a 20% increase), representing 6% of the population. Factors driving this increase include:
Concerns about animal welfare: Many people switch to veganism because they do not want to support the livestock industry, which is considered inhumane.
Awareness of the environmental impact of meat consumption: The livestock industry is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
Increasing availability of vegan products: More and more restaurants and supermarkets offer delicious and affordable vegan food options.
Jackfruit is considered an ideal meat alternative because its texture resembles meat when cooked. This makes jackfruit a favorite choice for those looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing taste and desired texture. Jackfruit’s ability to be processed into various dishes makes it even more popular, reaffirming its position in the strategic perishable export category.
Conclusion
The surge of Indonesian jackfruit’s popularity in the European market is not a coincidence. With the increasing numbers of vegetarians and the search for sustainable meat alternatives, jackfruit offers a delicious and practical solution. The future of Indonesian jackfruit exports looks bright, with opportunities to expand markets and increase export value. This is Indonesia’s moment to seize the momentum and make a name for itself in the global perishable export market.