"We will focus on wheat and soybean imports," the minister stated during a press briefing in Jakarta on Friday.
He emphasized, however, that any import decisions will prioritize the protection of domestic farmers, with recommendations from the Ministry of Agriculture serving as the principal basis for approval.
Sulaiman also mentioned the possibility of importing additional commodities such as milk and beef from the United States, but said final decisions will depend on a comprehensive evaluation of national demand and domestic supply.
The import opportunity arises following adjustments in trade tariffs imposed by the US government, which have created space for Indonesia to capitalize on changes in global trade flows.
While expressing openness to international trade cooperation, the minister stressed that imports will only proceed if domestic production is unable to meet national needs.
He reiterated the government's commitment to maintaining a balance between opening the market and safeguarding local producers, amid the evolving dynamics of global agricultural trade.
On July 16, US President Donald Trump announced the conclusion of tariff negotiations with Indonesia after a 17-minute phone call with President Prabowo Subianto.
According to Trump, the agreement opens Indonesia’s entire market to the United States. Under the deal, Indonesia has committed to purchasing US$15 billion in energy products, US$4.5 billion in agricultural goods, and 50 Boeing aircraft, mostly 777 models.
A White House statement also noted that the United States has imposed a 19 percent tariff on all Indonesian exports. In return, Indonesia has agreed to remove several non-tariff barriers, including exempting certain US-origin goods from domestic content (TKDN) requirements and recognizing US FDA certification for pharmaceutical and health products.
Related news: US tariffs: Ministry prepares steps to tackle import surge
Related news: US companies pledge major investments in Indonesia: minister
Translator: Muhammad Harianto, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: M Razi Rahman
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
