KUCHING: Sarawak's shrimp export is expected to reach RM1 billion by 2030, said Sarawak Modernisation of Agriculture and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Stephen Rundi Utom.

He said the effort is also in line with the Sarawak government's target to make the state a net exporter of food by 2030.

Rundi said that the target can be achieved with the cooperation of his ministry through the Sarawak State Farmers' Organisation (PPNS) together with Sea Horse Corporation Sdn Bhd.

To that effect, both parties signed a memorandum of agreement today to increase shrimp production.

"So far, the total export of Sea Horse prawns has reached RM100 million, in the government's efforts to reach the target of RM1 billion, a total of 7,000 hectares of land is needed to create breeding ponds.

"This effort will indirectly increase Sarawak's revenue in terms of aquaculture," he said at a press conference after the signing ceremony for the Rambungan Aqualife Sdn Bhd shrimp farming project between PPNS and Sea Horse near here today.

He highlighted that through the collaboration, the government will help in terms of infrastructure while Sea Horse contributes through expertise in terms of production.

"We will monitor each of these joint ventures so that they can succeed according to what has been planned," he said.

-- BERNAMA