Transforming blue food within the framework of Indonesia’s sustainable food-energy-water nexus

Background: Indonesia, as the world's second-largest marine capture fishery producer contributing to 25% of global fishery demand, faces significant challenges in developing a sustainable blue food sector. Despite recording an export value of USD 6.24 billion in 2022, the sector is constrained by critical issues: 75% of fishing areas are overexploited, aquaculture productivity remains low (averaging only 1 ton per cultivator), and marine ecosystem degradation continues to threaten long-term sustainability. Methods: An analysis using the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus framework identifies three major challenges, first technological and management gaps that hinder productivity, second a high dependence on fossil fuels that threatens sustainability, and third value chain fragmentation that undermines system efficiency. Nonetheless, there remain opportunities for development through product innovation, supply chain digitalization, and the adoption of sustainable technologies. Findings: Based on a comprehensive analysis, this paper recommends five key strategies: policy reform through cross-sector regulatory harmonization; the application of technological innovations for sustainable practices; multi-level capacity strengthening; the development of innovative financing schemes; and the implementation of integrated monitoring systems. The success of this transformation will depend on political commitment, effective stakeholder collaboration, and the presence of enabling policy support. Conclusion: The transformation of Indonesia’s blue food system is essential to achieving sustainable food security within the framework of the Food-Energy-Water Nexus. Its success depends on policy reform, the adoption of sustainable technologies, and multi-stakeholder collaboration supported by strong political commitment. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this article lies in its integrated application of the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus framework to analyze systemic challenges and opportunities in Indonesia’s blue food transformation. It offers a multi-level policy strategy combining regulatory reform, sustainable technology adoption, and stakeholder collaboration, tailored specifically to the Indonesian coastal and fisheries context.