Jakarta — Despite the political situation being marred by demonstrations, the government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to realizing the food self-sufficiency program. Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman expressed confidence that the rice self-sufficiency target can be achieved ahead of schedule.
Amran revealed that national rice stocks have now reached 4 million tonnes, the highest level in the last 57 years.
“We once reached a [rice stock] figure of 3 million tons in 1984,” said Amran.
With this achievement, the government is targeting rice self-sufficiency in less than four years. Amran even cited the momentum of the 80th anniversary of Indonesian Independence last August as a stepping stone for a major leap forward in the agricultural sector.
“We’re using this moment to make an exponential leap in all commodities, especially food. God willing, this year we can achieve food self-sufficiency,” said Amran.
In addition to increasing stocks, farmer welfare is also showing a positive trend. The Farmer Exchange Rate (NTP) reportedly reached 122%, exceeding the government’s target. Indonesia even stopped rice imports in January 2025, contributing to a drop in global rice prices from US$460 to US$370 per ton.
“This means that Indonesian farmers not only contribute to the well-being of their own people, but also contribute to maintaining global food stability,” Amran explained.
Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) confirms a significant increase in food production. By October 2025, rice production is projected to reach 31.04 million tons, a 12.16% increase compared to the same period last year. The potential harvestable area for rice also increased by 11.9% to 10.22 million hectares.
Amran targets total rice production in 2025 to reach 33 million tons, exceeding the targets set by Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives and President Prabowo Subianto.
“God willing, we are confident there will be no disruptions. We will be self-sufficient, and production will exceed the target set by Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives and the President,” he stressed.
The increase in production was driven by various strategic programs, ranging from land optimization, irrigation improvements, to the creation of new rice fields.
The Deputy for Distribution and Services at BPS, Pudji Ismartini, stated that the potential for rice production during August–October 2025 increased compared to the same period last year.
“The potential rice production from August to October 2025 is estimated at 9.11 million tons, an increase of 0.36 million tons (4.17%) compared to the same period last year,” said Pudji.
With these various achievements, the government asserts that no agenda is more important than ensuring national food security. President Prabowo’s self-sufficiency target is believed to be more than a political promise, but rather a strategic commitment to the nation’s future.
