Jokowi: Rice Prices Expected to Decrease in Anticipation of Harvesting Season
Published on: March 4, 2024.
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Rice Prices Expected to Decrease During Harvesting Season, Says President Jokowi
Jakarta – President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) expressed optimism on Monday that rice prices will start to decline as the country enters the harvest season. Jokowi made this statement before departing to Australia from the Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base in Jakarta.
Jokowi reassured the public that the government has ensured an abundant supply of rice to meet the demands during the upcoming Ramadan holy month and Eid al-Fitr. He said, “We have made preparations to ensure the availability of essential goods as Eid approaches. We have sufficient rice stocks. I will personally inspect other staple goods in detail.”
In response to complaints about increasing rice prices, Jokowi advised consumers to check the prices at the Cipinang Central Market and Johar Karawang Market, as he believes prices have started to decline. However, he clarified that this trend may not reflect national prices.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, approximately 8.46 million tons of rice are expected to be produced during the harvest season in March-April 2024. The Director General of Crops, Suwandi, stated that this substantial quantity is more than enough to meet the country’s needs.
Bulog Bayu Krisnamurthi, the President Director of the state-owned logistics firm Bulog, also assured the public that there is no need to worry about price spikes. The prices of premium-grade rice have started to return to normal levels, with a decrease to around Rp14,000 ($0.88) per kilogram from Rp17,000 ($1.08) per kilogram. The prices of medium-grade rice have also begun to stabilize.
In conclusion, President Jokowi predicts a decline in rice prices during the harvest season. The government has taken measures to ensure sufficient rice stocks for the upcoming religious events. Consumers are encouraged to check prices at local markets, and the Ministry of Agriculture expects a plentiful rice production. There is no need to worry about price spikes, as premium-grade rice prices are returning to normal levels.
Source: ANTARA News
