Indonesia Eyes Rice Export Role Amid Record Surplus

14-Apr-2025 08:42 PM

Jakarta: Indonesia is poised to shift from being a leading rice importer to a potential exporter, with an expected surplus of 12 million tonnes of rice in 2025.

The Agriculture Minister stated that this surplus could help Indonesia emerge as a key player in the global rice market.

Government efforts toward self-sufficiency—including expanded cultivation, better infrastructure, and support for farmers—have significantly boosted production. The minimum purchase price for paddy has also been raised to 6,500 rupiah ($0.39) per kg.

Indonesia’s rice production could reach 30 million tonnes annually, far exceeding domestic demand. If exports begin, it could impact traditional exporters like Vietnam and Thailand, though India may remain largely unaffected due to its lower prices and established markets.

The food agency Bulog is expected to procure 2 million tonnes of rice by the end of April, double its annual average over the last five years.