WNAM REPORT: Indonesia’s Ministry of Finance announced on March 26 that the government has approved a budget of 118 trillion IRD (7.1 billion USD) for food security programmes in 2025.
Ahmad Saiful Mujab, head of the ministry’s State-Owned Enterprise Investment Office, stated that the funds will be allocated for rice procurement, upgrading production equipment, and financial support for investments.
Unlike previous investments in securities or real estate, the government now prioritises direct support for state enterprises in rice purchasing. The National Logistics Agency (Bulog) will see adjustments in its business and stockpiling strategies.
Mujab emphasised that food security is a national security priority, especially given global conflicts and supply chain disruptions. Countries with surplus rice are prioritising domestic needs before exporting, adding challenges to Indonesia’s import strategy.
Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan noted that 16.6 trillion IDR (1 billion USD) has been set aside for Bulog to purchase 3 million tonnes of rice by April 2025, including unprocessed rice. Inter-agency discussions continue to ensure Bulog has sufficient financial resources for food reserves.
