ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – Indonesia has decided to import 300 thousand tons of rice from Thailand and Pakistan to strengthen national food stocks, especially facing the month of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 1445 Hijriah.
“There has been an additional contract for another 300 thousand tons of rice from Thailand and Pakistan to strengthen Bulog’s stock,” said the Main Director of the Indonesian Logistics Agency (Perum Bulog), Bayu Krisnamurthi, quoted from Antara, Sunday, March 3 2024.
Bayu said that the 300 thousand tonnes of rice was still on its way to Indonesia and would increase the stock strength in Bulog’s warehouse which currently reached 1.3 million tonnes.
“Currently, there are 1.3 million tons of stock controlled by Bulog, so the additional contract of 300 thousand tons will strengthen Bulog’s stock,” he said.
According to him, the addition of the import contract is a strategic step to strengthen Bulog’s stock, which is the front guard in maintaining the stability of rice supplies in Indonesia.
Bayu also explained that the decision to import rice was made in accordance with domestic needs and availability. As the only rice import operator in Indonesia, Bulog carries out the import process in a gradual and measured manner, taking into account factors such as harvest time and local rice availability.
Domestic Absorption
Despite importing, Bulog still prioritizes domestic rice absorption if local production increases. As part of its duties in maintaining government food reserves, Bulog ensures that imports are in line with real needs and do not disrupt price stability.
Bayu also emphasized that Bulog is subject to the supervision of the Supreme Audit Agency in every operational step. This shows Bulog’s commitment to carrying out its duties transparently and accountably in the public interest.
“The rice import steps taken by Bulog are also directed at ensuring the fulfillment of government food reserves,” he said.
Thus, added Bayu, Bulog plays an important role in maintaining national food security and guaranteeing sufficient rice supplies for the Indonesian people. (ANT)
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