Government’s Rice Reserve stocks to be bolstered through rice imports: Bapanas
Published on: January 17, 2024.
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Government Decides to Import Rice to Strengthen Rice Reserves
Jakarta – The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has announced that the government will be importing rice as a necessary measure to reinforce the Government’s Rice Reserve (CBP) stocks. Bapanas Head Arief Prasetyo Adi highlighted the importance of this decision, stating that it is crucial to ensure the availability of rice in the country.
Importing Rice to Address Decline in Production
Adi explained that the decline in Indonesia’s rice production, caused by climate change and the El Nino phenomenon, has led to a deficit in the monthly rice balance. In order to mitigate the impact of this deficit and prevent an escalation in rice prices, Bapanas has assigned the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) to import two million tons of rice in 2024.
According to estimations by Statistics Indonesia (BPS), the country is expected to face a deficit of 2.83 million tons of rice in the January-February 2024 period. This deficit is projected to reach 1.61 million tons in January and 1.22 million tons in February.
Ensuring Stable Rice Prices
Bapanas is working tirelessly to maintain balance in rice prices at all levels, from farmers to producers and consumers. Adi assured that rice imports will not have a significant impact on the prices faced by farmers, and that efforts are being made to ensure the stability of rice prices.
One indicator of this stability is the positive changes observed in the Food Crop Farmer Exchange Rate (NTPP) index throughout 2023. The NTPP index in December 2023 increased to 114.24, compared to 113.92 in November 2023 and 101.71 in December 2022.
Conclusion
The decision to import rice is a necessary step taken by the government to address the decline in rice production and strengthen the country’s rice reserves. By taking this action, the government aims to ensure the availability of rice and prevent any significant price increases. Bapanas remains committed to maintaining stable rice prices for farmers, producers, and consumers.
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