January 5, 2026

 

Indonesia bans corn imports for this year

 

The Indonesian government announced a total ban on the import of rice, table sugar, and corn for 2026, citing a significant rise in domestic production and a strategic pivot toward national food self-sufficiency.

 

The government has even shelved plans for industrial rice imports, which are typically used for manufacturing, Tatang Yuliono, a senior official at the Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs, stated on January 1.

 

He stated that the country has successfully achieved self-reliance in these strategic commodities for household consumption, following a comprehensive review of the 2026 National Commodity Balance.

 

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman emphasised that the policy follows direct instructions from Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to prioritise the welfare of local farmers and livestock breeders.

 

By halting the import of industrial-grade rice, the government intends to compel domestic businesses to source raw materials from local farmers, thereby encouraging improvements in yield quality and processing standards.

 

"We hope that locally sourced raw materials can meet standards for amylose content, hygiene, viscosity, and hardness," Sulaiman said, noting that the policy is designed to strengthen the domestic supply chain.

 

The ban is supported by optimistic production forecasts.

 

The Indonesian government expects a corn yield of 18 million tonnes, which comfortably surpasses the national demand of 17.055 million tonnes.

 

Government officials believe such a surplus provide a sufficient buffer to ensure price stability and food security without relying on international markets.

 

The 2026 National Food Balance will serve as the primary roadmap for implementing these measures and monitoring the transition to full agricultural independence.

 

- Antara