Minister Of Agriculture Amran Says Indonesia Will Import Soybeans And Wheat From The US

JAKARTA - Minister of Agriculture (Mentan) Amran Sulaiman revealed that agricultural imports from the United States (US) will focus on two commodities, namely soybeans and wheat.

The value of agricultural imports from the US that has been agreed on is US$4.5 billion or equivalent to Rp73.47 trillion (assuming an exchange rate of Rp16,314 per US dollar).

"Focus on wheat. Then so small. Those are two commodities," he said when met at the Office of the Coordinating Ministry for Food, Jakarta, Friday, July 25.

In addition to wheat and soybeans, Amran said the government also opens opportunities for imports of other commodities such as cow's milk from the US. However, the final decision is still waiting for the results of the evaluation of national needs.

"Susu juga bisa. Kita lihat akan nanti. Tetapi (yang sudah pasti) soy with wheat," jelasnya.

Although open to international trade cooperation, Amran emphasized that imports will only be carried out if domestic supplies are insufficient.

The government, continued Amran, will balance global market openness with domestic production. The goal is to protect local farmers.

"So the government is very good. So, whatever we import, it must protect agriculture. There must be a recommendation from the Ministry of Agriculture," he said.