Heaptalk, Jakarta — Indonesia’s Trade Minister, Budi Santoso, revealed that nine labeled rice producers had been discovered reducing the weight of their packaged rice. In response to the matter, Budi has pledged to intensify oversight to prevent further instances of underweight packaging.
“We are committed to closely monitoring these nine producers and other rice manufacturers to ensure such practices are eradicated,” Budi affirmed.
Refers to the Trade Ministry’s Directorate of Consumer Protection and Trade Order (PKTN) data, around nine businesses were identified in 2025 for selling rice packages that did not meet the labeled weight. Budi emphasized that the ministry has strengthened its surveillance efforts and is collaborating with local governments to enhance monitoring and address the issue.
“We are continuously working with regional authorities to improve oversight,” Budi said during a press conference. (03/23)
Furthermore, Budi called on all stakeholders to remain vigilant and report any findings of underweight packaging to the Ministry.
Meanwhile, Moga Simatupang, Director General of PKTN at the Ministry of Trade, confirmed that administrative sanctions have been imposed on the nine producers involved in the underweight packaging scandal. The businesses are located in Kendal Regency, Gatot Subroto (South Jakarta), Kediri Regency (East Java), Pangkalan Baru (Central Bangka Regency), Pangkalpinang City, Lumajang Regency, Mojokerto (East Java), Sumbawa Regency, and Kediri Regency.
“In 2025 alone, nine companies have been penalized,” Moga stated at the Ministry office in Central Jakarta.
The issue came to light after a viral video on YouTube showed a consumer discovering that a 5 kg rice package contained only 4 kg of rice. Following the discovery, the authority swiftly launched an investigation, which led to the identification of the nine producers engaged in the fraudulent practice. Ministry of Trade has reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring fair trade practices in the rice industry.
