Jakarta (ANTARA) – Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman reaffirmed his optimism that Indonesia is on the verge of achieving rice self-sufficiency, citing a surge in production that strengthens national food sovereignty.

“God willing, within the next three months, if there are no major obstacles, we will be able to declare that Indonesia has achieved rice self-sufficiency,” Sulaiman said in a statement on Friday in Jakarta.

He said the government continues to promote strategic programs, including the development of new rice fields, rehabilitation of irrigation systems, and improvement of farmer welfare. Citing recent breakthroughs and production gains, Sulaiman stressed that Indonesia will not need to import rice this year.

“God willing, with sufficient stock, there will be no rice imports this year,” he said.

According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS), national rice production from January to November 2025 is estimated to reach 33.19 million tons, up 12.62 percent from 29.47 million tons in the same period of 2024. The figure marks Indonesia’s strongest rice output in the past seven years, surpassing the previous record of 31.54 million tons in 2022.

BPS Deputy for Production Statistics M. Habibullah said earlier this week that the production boost reinforces food security and price stability.

“With rice production projected to exceed 33 million tons, the availability of our staple food is increasingly secure. Rice is no longer a driver of inflation but rather a stabilizer of prices and purchasing power,” he said during a press briefing in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Indonesia’s latest figures are now approaching projections by international institutions, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The USDA estimates Indonesia’s rice output at 34.6 million tons this year, while the FAO projects up to 35.6 million tons for the 2025/2026 planting season — placing Indonesia firmly on track toward full rice self-sufficiency.

Published Date: October 4, 2025