Food Security Is A Priority, Government Cuts 145 Regulations

Illustration: Photo: Doc. ANTARA

Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani Indrawati said strengthening food security is one of the government's main priorities in realizing the nation's independence.

He said that as many as 145 regulations that hinder the distribution of fertilizers had been cut by 2025, which had a positive impact on increasing rice production.

"In 2025, the government has cut 145 regulations on the distribution of complicated fertilizers. As a result, rice production increases, stocks are maintained above 4 million tons, rice prices are maintained stable and farmers are more prosperous," he said at the 3rd Plenary Session Period 1 Session Year 2025-2026, Thursday, August 21.

Sri Mulyani explained that this step was taken by the government to strengthen the role of Perum Bulog as a food stock buffer, stabilize prices, and protect farmers' income.

The government's main focus is to achieve food self-sufficiency, especially rice and corn, maintain food price stability, and improve the welfare of farmers and fishermen.

As for the 2026 State Revenue and Expenditure Budget Draft (RAPBN), the government has allocated a budget of IDR 164.4 trillion to support various food security programs.

Program tersebut mencakup pencetakan sawah seluas 550.000 hektare, penyaluran pupuk bersubsidi sebanyak lebih dari 9 juta ton secara tepat sasaran, pengadaan bibit unggul, penyediaan alat dan mesin pertanian, serta pemberian pembiayaan murah bagi pelaku usaha pangan.

Sri Mulyani menyampaikan sebanyaknya Rp62,9 triliun dialokasikan untuk pembangunan irigasi dan cadangan pangan, sementara Rp46,9 triliun digunakan untuk subsidi pupuk sebesar 9,62 juta ton.

The program includes the printing of 550,000 hectares of rice fields, the distribution of subsidized fertilizers of more than 9 million tons on target, the procurement of superior seeds, the provision of agricultural equipment and machinery, as well as the provision of cheap financing for food business actors.

Sri Mulyani said that as much as Rp62.9 trillion was allocated for irrigation and food reserves development, while Rp46.9 trillion was used for fertilizer subsidies of 9.62 million tons.