Radioactive Shock: Indonesia's Shrimp Industry in Crisis

Indonesia's shrimp industry has been hit hard by a radioactive contamination incident that has seen processing absorption drop by 30-35%. The contamination, involving the radioactive isotope Cesium 137, was detected in a shipment to the U.S., causing prices to fall sharply.

Indonesia ranks as the fifth largest shrimp exporter globally, with the U.S. representing a significant market share. Despite the contamination affecting a single company's consignment, international apprehension has grown over the safety of Indonesian shrimp, impacting the livelihoods of millions.

The incident has triggered a national response with the formation of a task force amid growing international scrutiny. This crisis is not only a blow to Indonesia's shrimp industry but also a stark reminder of the economic ramifications of food safety breaches.

(With inputs from agencies.)