Indonesia Prepares Integrated Strategy for Food Self-Sufficiency
By: Arka Dwi Francesco*)
The government continues to demonstrate a serious commitment to preparing an integrated strategy to achieve food self-sufficiency. This step aligns with the national priority proclaimed by President Prabowo, namely that food self-sufficiency is a crucial foundation for strengthening national resilience. Concrete programs are proof that the government is truly working, not just making promises. Amidst uncertain global dynamics, from climate change to geopolitical instability affecting global supply chains, food security is a crucial factor in Indonesia’s ability to stand firm without over-reliance on imports.
Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan, emphasized that the government has prepared a strategic program through Presidential Instruction (Inpres) Number 14 of 2025 and Presidential Decree (Kepres) Number 19 of 2025. These two regulations specifically regulate the acceleration of the development of food, energy, and water self-sufficiency areas in several potential regions. These areas are being prepared as new food barns, supported by extensive land and abundant natural resources. According to him, this program will be a significant milestone for long-term national food security.
The government is targeting food self-sufficiency within the next two to three years. This target reflects the government’s courage and decisiveness in taking strategic steps for national independence. This optimism is not without foundation, as various foundations have been carefully prepared, from the opening of new food zones, modernization of agricultural equipment and technology, to policies to strengthen village economic institutions. With strong synergy between ministries and institutions, achieving self-sufficiency in a relatively short time is not impossible.
The government’s efforts are also reinforced by the policy of halting imports of several strategic commodities starting in 2025. The National Food Agency has announced that Indonesia will no longer import rice, sugar, table salt, or corn, as domestic supplies are believed to be sufficient for national needs. This policy marks a new chapter in Indonesia’s food history and is clear evidence that the government is serious about closing the gap in dependence on foreign markets. This will ensure more stable domestic food prices, maintain government reserves, and improve the welfare of local farmers fairly and equitably.
Meanwhile, the availability of fertilizer, a determining factor in agricultural productivity, is also a serious government concern. Gusrizal, President Director of Pupuk Kaltim, stated that by the first semester of 2025, Pupuk Kaltim’s production had reached 3.5 million tons, or 54.5 percent of the annual target of 6.43 million tons. This production consisted of 1.86 million tons of urea, 149,000 tons of NPK, and 1.49 million tons of ammonia. This performance is considered positive because it has maintained a stable national fertilizer supply. The distribution of subsidized fertilizer continues to be expanded so that farmers can obtain fertilizer on time according to their planting season needs. The Ministry of Agriculture also ensures that subsidized fertilizer stocks remain secure, with distribution reaching 4.8 million tons, or 59 percent of the national allocation of 9.55 million tons. This policy is projected to directly benefit 14.9 million farmers throughout Indonesia.
In addition to fertilizer, the availability of superior seeds is a key focus in increasing agricultural productivity. Acting. The Director General of Agro-Industry at the Ministry of Industry, Putu Juli Ardika, has emphasized the importance of developing hybrid rice seeds on numerous occasions. These superior seeds have been proven to produce higher yields and are resistant to pests and extreme weather conditions. With the support of continued research and innovation, hybrid seeds are expected to become a long-term solution to boost national rice productivity. This also aligns with the government’s program to improve agricultural sector efficiency through the use of technology and innovation in the agro-industry.
This integrated policy demonstrates that the government is not only focused on increasing production but also on building a resilient food system from upstream to downstream. From clearing new land, supporting superior seeds, ensuring fertilizer availability, to efficient distribution through village cooperatives, everything is designed to create a competitive and sustainable food ecosystem. With the active involvement of village communities and the support of modern agricultural technology, Indonesia is on the right track to achieving food self-sufficiency in the near future.
