Indonesia’s Rice Stocks Surge to 4 Million Tons

President Prabowo Subianto leads a Plenary Cabinet Meeting, at the State Palace, Jakarta, on Friday (03/13).

The Government affirmed that Indonesia has large food stocks, particularly rice. According to Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman, the national rice reserves have climbed to 4 million tons and are expected to increase in the near future, reaching the highest level in the nation’s history.

“Today, the reserves reach 4 million tons and expected to increase to 5 million tons next month. This is the highest level we’ve ever recorded and would be enough to feed people for 324 days until the end of this year,” Andi said during a Plenary Cabinet Meeting led by President Prabowo Subianto, at the State Palace, Jakarta, on Friday (03/13).

The Minister also said that a number of Indonesia’s strategic commodities has shown positive trends, including a significant increase in crude palm oil (CPO) export volume, contributing to the whole export performance of agricultural sector.

“Mr. President, we have good news. Our CPO’s export increased by 6 million tons while we only need 5.3 million tons for biofuel,” he added.

In addition, Indonesia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from the agricultural sector recorded its highest growth in the past 25 years, reaching 5.47 percent, which contributes significantly to the national economy. Meanwhile, the Farmer Exchange Rate (NTP), which reflects the level of farmers’ welfare, reached its highest level in 33 years.

According to the Minister, these achievements are largely attributed to various government policies, including the increase in the Government Purchasing Price (HPP) and the reduction in fertilizer prices, which have helped improve farmers’ welfare.

In the response to the report, President Prabowo Subianto stated that national food security condition is currently supported with a strong foundation. He also underscored the importance of guarding all food commodities, particularly those that provide essential protein for the public, for example fish.

Through the achievements, the Government is optimistic that the national food security will be further maintained and strengthened, pushing Indonesia toward a sustainable food self-sufficiency. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RAS/MMB)