Adi explained that imports would focus on food commodities with insufficient domestic stocks.
"The commodities that will be imported are only those that are insufficient. For example, the local meat production cannot meet all of our needs," he noted here on Tuesday.
The agency head emphasized that President Prabowo's directive regarding import quotas aims to expand opportunities for local importers.
According to the Food Balance Projection data processed by Bapanas, there remains a shortage of ruminant meat, such as beef and buffalo, to meet domestic consumption needs.
The Food Balance Projection further indicated that soybeans and garlic must also be imported from abroad.
Nevertheless, Adi affirmed that the government continues to prioritize domestic food production.
Related news: Lifting of import quotas to not disadvantage local industry: govt
He stated that the president recognizes the importance of maintaining a trade balance by adjusting imports based on demand while continuing to push for increasing domestic production to strengthen national economic resilience and independence.
The projection set by the government contains credible numbers while still aiming to protect the interests of local food producers.
He further affirmed that efforts would be made to ensure imports would not have a disruptive impact.
Earlier, President Prabowo Subianto instructed the Red and White Cabinet to eliminate import quotas to support businesses, particularly those with global partnerships.
The president's directive aims to address complaints from businesses partnered with global companies, especially those from the US.
Those businesses have expressed concerns that the rules on imports in Indonesia create uncertainty in the negotiation process between companies, which can lead to delays.
Related news: Prabowo urges end to import quotas to boost business competition
Translator: Muhammad Harianto, Raka Adji
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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