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Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Indonesian government is preparing to implement measures to restrict the import of cassava and tapioca to support domestic farmers' production and prevent adverse effects on local agricultural product prices.

Zulkifli Hasan, Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Food, revealed that the ministry would request data on domestic cassava production volumes and any existing shortages before considering import approvals. "We have made a decision on this matter. We are currently awaiting an official letter from the Ministry of Agriculture, which will then be forwarded to the Ministry of Trade to issue regulations controlling imports," Zulkifli stated.

Sudaryono, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, noted that controlling cassava import volumes is necessary to protect local products from competition with imported goods. Additionally, regulations will be introduced to manage tapioca and wheat imports. "The import of tapioca and wheat will be regulated by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Trade to ensure food security and enhance the income of local farmers," Sudaryono said.

This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's policy of promoting food self-sufficiency. The president aims to halt the import of rice, corn, and salt by the end of 2025 and expressed confidence that Indonesia could achieve food self-sufficiency sooner than the original target of four years. The cassava and tapioca import restrictions are expected to stabilize agricultural product prices and enhance local farmers' competitiveness in the domestic market.

Source: Indonesia to limit cassava, tapioca imports to aid farmers - ANTARA News