VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

North Sulawesi Province exported some 13 tons of nutmeg valued at US$62,400 to the United States (US) in early June 2019.

"In spite of the holidays, we must prioritize and focus on export activities to avoid disappointing any buyers," Head of Foreign Trade of North Sumatra's Industry and Trade Agency, Darwin Muksin, noted in Manado, North Sulawesi,  on Monday.

Muksin remarked that the exports of 13 tons of nutmeg to the US had contributed to the country's foreign exchange.

He pointed out that the province solely exported nutmeg of high quality.

"Nutmeg in demand among buyers from the US is the Siau variety that has proven to be of above-average quality than other types," he elaborated.

In addition to the US, North Sulawesi's nutmeg and mace products are highly sought after in the Netherlands and some other European Union nations owing to its distinct taste and varied uses, including for seasoning.

Hence, Muksin has encouraged local farmers to boost nutmeg production to capitalize on the opportunity to export the commodity to nations worldwide.

North Sulawesi's nutmeg is not only popular in Europe, the United States, and Asia but has also succeeded in attracting African markets.

"The rising demand for exporting nutmeg and mace to various countries in the world is a testament to the good quality of nutmeg products from the province," he pointed out.

Muksin added that North Sulawesi's nutmeg sold to European, American, and African markets are from the districts of Sitaro Islands, Sangihe, and Talaud.