The distribution of fertilizers to farmers would not be affected because they are categorized as essential goods whose distribution is not restricted under the PSBB regulation. Fertilizer is a strategic commodity that plays an important role in ensur
Jakarta (ANTARA) - State-run fertilizer holding company PT Pupuk Indonesia (Persero) has made assurance that the imposition of large-scale social distancing (PSBB) by local regions would not impact the distribution of subsidized and non-subsidized fertilizers to farmers.

Head of Corporate Communication Wijaya Laksana said the company will ensure the supply of fertilizers for the agriculture sector, more so with the harvesting period from April to September.

"The distribution of fertilizers to farmers would not be affected because they are categorized as essential goods whose distribution is not restricted under the PSBB regulation. Fertilizer is a strategic commodity that plays an important role in ensuring smooth national development," Laksana affirmed here on Thursday.

In accordance with Health Minister’s Regulation No.9 of 2020 on guidelines for large-scale social distancing, some services could remain open during the imposition of PSBB, including supermarkets, minimarkets, traditional markets, drugstores, stores for food and basic necessities, distribution of essential goods, fuel oil, and gas and energy stations.

The government has, until now, approved the imposition of PSBB for Jakarta, as the number COVID-19 cases in the capital city has continued to rise.

Laksana has urged producers, under the state-run fertilizer holding company, to work in coordination with related institutions at the provincial to district levels, as well as the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), the military, and police.

The authority should ensure that farmers obtain fertilizer from the plant, with accuracy in delivery time, quantity, price, location, type, and quality.

"Hence, farmers can obtain fertilizers with certainty, and the national food productivity will not be affected," he added.
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Translator: Mentari DG, Sri Haryati
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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