"Our program for 2027 is to no longer import salt. However, this year and next year, imports will still be needed," he said during a meeting with Commission IV of the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta.
To accelerate salt self-sufficiency, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries is implementing programs to boost domestic production.
Indonesia's national demand for raw salt in 2024 and 2025 is projected at 4.9 million tons, with an annual growth assumption of 2.5 percent due to population and industrial sector growth.
For 2025, domestic production is targeted at 2.25 million tons. Combined with a remaining stock of 836,000 tons, local supply is expected to cover 63 percent of total demand.
Koswara, Director General of Maritime Affairs and Spatial Management, explained that two key programs will support salt self-sufficiency: establishing a 13,000-hectare National Salt Industry Center in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara, and intensifying existing salt production areas.
The new center could increase production by up to 2.6 million tons, while intensification is expected to boost yields by up to 30 percent.
Koswara noted that while household consumption needs are already met domestically, industrial salt production remains insufficient.
"We are actually self-sufficient in consumption salt. The challenge lies in industrial salt, which still requires imports," he said.
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Translator: Arie Novarina
Editor: Anton Santoso
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