The Indonesian government declared it plans to export rice and provide donations to countries, citing its abundant domestic stockpile. A senior Agriculture Ministry official stated on Thursday that Indonesia intends to export at least 2,000 tons of non-premium rice to Malaysia every month as its national stockpile approaches 4 million tons.
The export plan is now in the administrative preparation phase, marking a significant transformation in its rice policy from a long-time importer to an emerging global exporter.
During a visit to Karawang, West Java, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono stated that discussions with Malaysian counterparts and potential buyers have already taken place. The final details are now being finalized, and once President Prabowo Subianto approves, Indonesia will proceed with the export initiative.
Malaysia imports rice from various suppliers, and an initial volume has already been agreed upon, he added.
Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman has also conducted discussions with Malaysian officials to advance discussions on the planned rice exports. Malaysia is experiencing elevated domestic rice prices, with local production covering only 40 to 50% of its total demand.
Indonesia’s growing capacity for rice exports is supported by its sizable reserves, now nearing 4 million tons under the management of the state logistics agency Bulog. This surplus stems from the country’s decision to cease rice imports, contributing to a global oversupply and driving down international rice prices.
Sudaryono reported that the government’s rice reserves (CBP) have reached 3.7 million tons, while rice absorption from January 2025 to mid-May has totaled 2.1 million tons.
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