Indonesia Plans Rice Exports for Humanitarian Aid Amid Surplus

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced that Indonesia will permit rice exports to other countries on humanitarian grounds, emphasizing that these exports are not intended for profit but to assist nations facing food shortages. The move is based on reports that Indonesia has achieved a production surplus and is now capable of supporting others while maintaining its own food security. While Malaysia has expressed interest in importing rice from Indonesia due to domestic supply shortages and rising prices, Indonesian Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman stated that maintaining sufficient national rice stocks remains the priority for now. The National Food Agency indicated that rice exports could be considered if reserves remain abundant, with any final decision dependent on the president's approval. Indonesia's current rice surplus is projected to be between 2.8 and 3.36 million tons, with goals to increase reserves further before committing to major exports. The discussions reflect Indonesia's growing self-sufficiency and its potential role as a regional food supplier.