"I am optimistic that next year, we will not import sugar, salt for consumption, rice, or corn," Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan said after visiting a sugarcane plantation in Malang, East Java, on Thursday.
To implement the policy to end sugar imports, total domestic production needs to reach 3.1 million tons per year, he added.
National sugar production has reached 2.4 million tons this year, an increase of 200,000 tons from 2.2 million tons in 2023. Hasan said that the figure is projected to increase to 2.7 million tons in 2025.
"If the national need is 3.1 million tons and we still have remaining stock, it will be sufficient," he added.
According to the minister, the government will continue to boost the implementation of strategic steps with the help of district, city, and provincial governments to maximize the production of sugar and other commodities.
"Of course, there is an option to open new land (plantations); we will still discuss this with the provincial government," Hartarto said.
He expressed hope the policy will improve the welfare of sugarcane farmers.
"The people have worked hard, so do not let them plant only to suffer losses," he added. "If you have planted sugarcane, it is bought; if the price is good, it must be profitable."
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Translator: Willi Irawan, Ananto Pradana, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Anton Santoso
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