"We allow live cattle investment to enter Indonesia. The country of origin depends, as long as the country is approved. For example, Australia, New Zealand, or Brazil," he expounded in Jakarta on Wednesday.
His statement follows an announcement by Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan that live cattle imports will be increased by 184 thousand heads to 534 thousand heads.
In addition, Sudaryono informed that the state budget will not be used for live cattle imports, since they are considered an investment.
Therefore, the government has invited local entrepreneurs, cooperatives, individuals, and foreign companies to bring breeding cattle to Indonesia, he informed.
The move is aimed at meeting the increased need for protein consumption in Indonesia, especially due to the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program launched by President Prabowo Subianto's administration, he explained.
Related news: President targets affordable protein prices within a year
"This MBG program triggers a large protein consumption. This need should not be met by imported meats," he said.
He added that the purpose of allowing live cattle imports is achieving food self-sufficiency, particularly to meet protein needs.
Earlier, Minister Hasan said imports of live cattle will be increased by 184 thousand to 534 thousand heads.
The move is part of efforts to increase beef production and cut dependence on frozen beef imports in the future.
According to the minister, live cattle imports can empower livestock breeders and farmers since the cattle can be directly managed by them.
The addition of live cattle imports is also expected to bring added value to the commodity. In contrast, if frozen meat is imported, it will be sold directly to consumers, without involving livestock breeders and farmers.
Meanwhile, the frozen buffalo meat quota has been reduced by 100 thousand tons, from 200 thousand tons.
Related news: Australia awaits decision on cow import quota from Indonesia
Translator: Putu Indah S, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
