Heaptalk, Jakarta — Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan stated that the Indonesian government will stop rice imports in 2025. This policy is expected to accelerate the realization of food self-sufficiency, as President Prabowo Subianto desired.
“This program is a top priority to enhance national food security and reduce dependence on strategic commodity imports. Hopefully, we can achieve this by 2027. Can we do it? Certainly, as long as there is strong cooperation and coordination,” said Zulkifli.
One concrete step towards food self-sufficiency is the cessation of imports of several commodities starting next year. He said, “We have decided in a coordination meeting that in 2024, we will not import rice. We will strive to meet the needs of domestic production.”
In addition to rice, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) ensures that the national salt supply is sufficient, so there is no need for imports. The Minister of Agriculture also stated the same for corn and sugar commodities. “Stopping sugar imports has also been decided. Hence, we will not import sugar next year. This truly shows our determination to be self-sufficient in food,” he added.
Zulkifli expressed optimism because a strong and dedicated government team supports him. He said, “I am very proud of this team. There is the Minister of Trade, Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Amran, Minister of Forestry and Environment, Head of Bulog, and others. They are all hard workers fighting for one goal, which is food self-sufficiency.”
The success of this program heavily depends on inter-agency cooperation and muscular coordination. “Therefore, we must continue to strengthen synergy at all levels. Don’t resort to imports easily. We must strive to the fullest,” he emphasized.
With strong determination and cross-sector collaboration, the government is optimistic about achieving food self-sufficiency by 2027. This step is expected to strengthen national independence and significantly benefit the Indonesian people.
