He noted that this year's corn production is predicted to be high. Therefore, the government has decided to no longer import corn, including for animal feed purposes.
However, during a limited meeting with ministries and agencies, the government devised a plan to import wheat instead of corn in case animal feed needs cannot be met domestically.
"Farmers' enthusiasm to plant corn is extraordinary, and we do not want that spirit to fade because we import commodities that can interfere with corn production. Therefore, wheat will be substituted for corn for animal feed. Wheat for feed is cheap," Hasan explained.
The minister emphasized that the wheat imports will be specifically for animal feed and not for other purposes. However, he said that the decision to import wheat for animal feed must be discussed again at the next limited coordination meeting.
"The decision to import (wheat) must be discussed at the limited meeting because if (the supply) is too much, factories will not take the corns, as they will have been replaced by wheat. That way, the (corn) price will plummet again, and make it difficult for farmers," he explained.
Earlier, Hasan said that domestic corn production is predicted to reach 16.68 million tons this year. Meanwhile, domestic corn demand is around 13 million tons.
Therefore, the government has decided to no longer import corn for animal feed.
President Prabowo Subianto has also ordered his ministers to stop imports of rice, salt, and sugar this year.
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Translator: Maria P, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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