Analyzing the Competitiveness of Indonesia's Lobster Exports: Comparative and Competitive Advantages Using RCA and ECI Indices

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the competitiveness (comparative and competitive advantages) of Indonesia's lobster commodity exports. The data used in this research consists of secondary data in the form of panel data obtained from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries of Indonesia, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the United Nations Commodity Trade (UN Comtrade), and the International Trade Center (ITC). Comparative advantage is measured using the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) index, and competitive advantage is measured using the Export Competitiveness Index (ECI). The findings reveal that Indonesia holds a stronger comparative advantage in lobster exports compared to Vietnam, with an average RCA value of 25.46 for Indonesia and 13.08 for Vietnam. Similarly, Indonesia demonstrates higher competitive advantage, as indicated by an average ECI value of 3.57 compared to Vietnam's 3.28. However, Indonesia's ECI values have shown fluctuations in recent years, highlighting periods of declining competitive advantage due to export policies and international market conditions. The findings provide policymakers with insights to develop balanced policies that ensure both environmental sustainability and economic growth. Additionally, it highlights the critical need for ongoing, granular analysis of export dynamics, particularly in the context of the Southeast Asian market.