Archive: 26 June 2026
Showing 351-400 of 1,505 articles
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:20 WIB
Pakistan Reveals 'Spoiler' in US-Iran Peace Deal, Labels Israel a 'Criminal'
Pakistan's ambassador to Indonesia has confirmed Islamabad successfully mediated a historic Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran, marking their first direct agreement in decades. The deal is projected to ease global tensions and stabilise energy markets. However, Pakistan has warned that Israel's military aggression in Lebanon poses a serious threat to the peace process, branding it the main regional spoiler.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:19 WIB
Prosecutors Detain Bima Education Official Suspected of Extorting 18 Teachers
The High Prosecutor's Office in West Nusa Tenggara has detained a local education official, Ico Rahmawati, for allegedly extorting teachers receiving remote area allowances. The suspect, who served as Head of Manpower Development, is accused of demanding payments from 18 teachers between 2019 and 2025. She reportedly used two dedicated bank accounts to collect the illicit funds, with teachers claiming they felt compelled to pay to ensure their future allowances were not withheld.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:19 WIB
Used Car Supply Plummets 24 Percent, But Demand Remains Resilient
The supply of used cars in Indonesia has fallen sharply by 24 percent year-on-year up to May, while demand has only dipped by 6 percent, creating a unique market dynamic. OLXmobbi attributes the supply crunch to reduced trade-ins, longer vehicle ownership due to extended loan tenors, and the lingering impact of low new car sales during the COVID-19 pandemic. This supply-demand imbalance has resulted in more stable used car prices compared to the previous year.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:18 WIB
Minister Calls for Unified Vision in Hajj and Umrah Ecosystem
Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has urged all stakeholders in the pilgrimage industry to align under a single vision focused on safety, comfort, and transparency. Speaking at the International Islamic Expo 2026, he stressed that synergy between the government, businesses, and the public is essential for professional governance. The forum serves as a consolidation platform to improve services and address shortcomings for the upcoming Hajj season.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:18 WIB
PAM Jaya Officially Becomes a Regional Company, Pramono Demands No Intervention
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called for an end to all external intervention in the management of PAM Jaya following its official transition to a regional company (Perseroda). He stressed that the new status provides greater business flexibility but requires a clear separation between the company's role as an operator and the government's role as regulator. Pramono also praised the water utility's improved performance, noting it has expanded clean water coverage to 82 percent of residents.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:17 WIB
Behind the Questions of the 2026 Economic Census
The 2026 Economic Census (SE2026) employs detailed questions to accurately map the characteristics and scale of Indonesian businesses, moving beyond simply recording their existence. Officials assure the public that the data collected, including on assets, is strictly for statistical purposes and is protected by law, not for taxation or individual wealth assessment. The census also takes a more comprehensive approach by recording household economic conditions to provide a complete picture of the national economy.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:15 WIB
From Scavenger to Student: A Young Boy Finds Hope in Prabowo's 'Sekolah Rakyat'
A 13-year-old boy from Cimahi, West Java, who once scavenged to support his grandmother, has found a new lease on life through the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme. The free boarding school, an initiative of President Prabowo Subianto and Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, targets children from the poorest families to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty. The programme provides not only academic education but also character building and a structured daily routine, transforming the lives of previously 'invisible' children.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:14 WIB
Monitoring Market Developments, Purbaya to Boost Panda Bond Target Above US$1 Billion
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa plans to increase the target for Indonesia's Panda Bond issuance to over US$1 billion, contingent on investor demand in the Chinese market. The government has postponed the issuance from early to late July 2026 to allow major Chinese fund managers and banks time to secure internal approvals. This adjustment reflects stronger-than-expected enthusiasm from Chinese investors for the renminbi-denominated instruments.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:13 WIB
Five SCI Recommendations to Keep Supply Chains Resilient Amid Global Disruption
Supply Chain Indonesia (SCI) has outlined five pillars for supply chain resilience, emphasising early risk detection and rapid recovery. The recommendations were presented alongside updates on customs regulations and the benefits of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status, which significantly speeds up clearance times. Business leaders also highlighted the impact of energy price volatility and currency fluctuations on operational costs.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:12 WIB
Female Golf Caddy in Tangerang Allegedly Assaulted, Hotman Paris Urges Victim to Pursue Legal Action
A female golf caddy in Tangerang has allegedly been assaulted by a male golfer, sustaining head and facial injuries. Prominent lawyer Hotman Paris has publicly offered legal assistance through his Hotman 911 team, urging the victim to pursue the case in court. Police have confirmed receiving a report and the matter is under investigation by the Criminal Investigation Unit.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:12 WIB
Jokowi Candid About Lampung Visit: I Came for PSI
Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo openly stated his visit to Lampung was to support the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI). He praised the party for nearly completing its organisational structure down to the village level in the province. Jokowi urged PSI cadres to remain actively engaged with the community daily, not just during election periods, to maximise their chances in the 2029 legislative elections.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:11 WIB
Minister Brian Yuliarto Urges Scientists to Support National Priority Programmes Through Research
Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto has called on universities and researchers to accelerate national priority programmes through strategic cross-ministerial research collaboration. Speaking at a national convention, he stressed that science and technology must move beyond academia to become a driving force for development. The initiative encompasses collaborative projects in energy, health, food security, and infrastructure.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:10 WIB
Minister Opens International Islamic Expo 2026, Pushes for Globally Competitive Hajj and Umrah Ecosystem
Minister of Hajj and Umrah M. Irfan Yusuf inaugurated the International Islamic Expo 2026 in Jakarta, outlining a five-point agenda to transform the sector. The strategy focuses on pilgrim protection, cost transparency, regulatory compliance, digital integration, and strengthening the national Hajj and Umrah economy. The government aims to build a civilised, transparent, and just ecosystem to enhance Indonesia's global standing in the industry.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:10 WIB
Industry and Health Ministries at Odds Over Cigarette Packaging Rules
Indonesia's Ministry of Industry and Ministry of Health are in disagreement over the implementation of new cigarette packaging regulations. The Industry Ministry opposes standardising colours and fonts, arguing it threatens product identity and the national tobacco ecosystem, while the Health Ministry insists the rules only standardise a specific colour to make health warnings more effective without banning brand logos.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:08 WIB
KDM Hands Over Rp250 Million Bounty to YTR, Victim of Taufik Hidayat
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has handed over a promised Rp250 million bounty to the family of YTR, a victim of prolonged abuse, after the perpetrator Taufik Hidayat was arrested by police. The governor explained the reward was given to the victim's family because the police, who made the arrest, could not accept the bounty. The funds are intended to support the victim's future following years of captivity and torture.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:07 WIB
Jakarta Prepares for 499th Anniversary Peak Celebration at Hotel Indonesia Roundabout
The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is finalising preparations for the peak celebration of the city's 499th anniversary, set to take place at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout on 27-28 June 2026. The event, themed 'Towards 5 Centuries of Jakarta', will feature a multimedia spectacle including a lighting show, video mapping, and the launch of the 5 Centuries of Jakarta logo. The celebration concludes a series of events that began earlier in June, including an official ceremony at the National Monument.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:07 WIB
West Java Police: Woman's Abuser in Bandung Faces 12 Years in Prison
West Java Police have charged a man with multiple offences, including severe abuse and false imprisonment, after he allegedly tortured a woman in a boarding house in Cileunyi, Bandung. The victim sustained serious injuries affecting her vision, speech, and ability to walk, which the police chief described as a result of repeated violence driven by jealousy. The suspect faces a maximum sentence of 12 years under the new Criminal Code.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:05 WIB
From Coast to Hinterland, Light Reaches Remote Corners of East Kalimantan
The East Kalimantan provincial government and state electricity company PLN are accelerating rural electrification to connect all remaining villages to the power grid by the end of 2027. The programme has already completed 41 locations in 2025, with 36 more planned for 2026, aiming to end decades of reliance on oil lamps and limited generator use in isolated communities. Officials hailed the initiative as concrete proof of the state's presence in remote areas, unlocking economic potential and ensuring equal access to basic services.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:05 WIB
Purbaya: Chinese Investors Unconcerned by S&P and Moody's Ratings
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that Chinese investors will disregard recent rating actions by S&P and Moody's when considering Indonesia's upcoming Panda Bond issuance. He emphasised that investors in China rely on assessments from domestic Chinese rating agencies rather than international ones. The government expects a favourable rating from the Chinese agency ahead of the bond's sale at the end of July 2026.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:02 WIB
MPR Deputy Speaker Urges Public Participation in Preventing Sexual Violence
Lestari Moerdijat, Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), has called for stronger community involvement to prevent and address the recurring issue of sexual violence. She highlighted a recent high-profile case of abuse and cited the 2022 Sexual Violence Crime Law, which mandates public participation. Moerdijat also pointed to reports of prolonged delays in handling such cases by law enforcement agencies.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:01 WIB
Sjafrie Discusses Strengthening Defence Cooperation with French Ambassador
Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin met with the French Ambassador to discuss bolstering bilateral defence ties, focusing on arms modernisation and military education. The meeting highlighted the ongoing strategic partnership, including the procurement of 42 Rafale fighter jets for the Indonesian Air Force. Sjafrie expressed hope that the growing relationship would support the defence capabilities of both nations.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:01 WIB
81 Years of Independence, Prabowo Asks: Why Can't We Make Our Own Cars Yet?
President Prabowo Subianto has challenged Indonesian scientists and professors to explain why the nation still lacks a fully-fledged domestic automotive industry 81 years after independence. Speaking at a national science convention, he questioned the country's reliance on imports despite a massive domestic market, while also highlighting lagging productivity in palm oil and dependence on imported wheat seeds.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:00 WIB
MBG Budget Efficiency Continues, Rupiah Closes Stronger at Rp 17,922 per US Dollar
The Indonesian rupiah strengthened against the US dollar, closing at Rp 17,922, as markets reacted positively to the government's consideration of further budget efficiencies for the flagship Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The potential savings, described as significant by the Finance Minister, aim to maintain fiscal stability amid concerns over the programme's large impact on the state budget deficit. Bank Indonesia also conducted aggressive market interventions to curb volatility and prevent the rupiah from depreciating past the Rp 18,000 threshold.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:00 WIB
Old Phones Deemed Useless, Suddenly Repurposed as Data Centres
Researchers from the University of California San Diego, in collaboration with Google, have developed a method to recycle old Pixel smartphones into low-cost data centres. The project aims to extend the lifespan of discarded devices and reduce electronic waste by repurposing their motherboards. The team found that a cluster of 20 to 50 old phones can match the computing power of a single dual-socket server processor, offering a viable local computing solution for universities and small organisations.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 19:00 WIB
Police Dismantle International Online Gambling Syndicate, 291 Suspects Arrested
The Indonesian National Police have uncovered a major international online gambling syndicate operating from an office complex in West Jakarta. A total of 291 individuals, including 287 foreign nationals and four Indonesians, have been named as suspects. Authorities seized hundreds of electronic devices during the raid, highlighting the scale of the illicit operation.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:59 WIB
Dedi Mulyadi Reveals Why BPJS Cannot Cover Medical Costs for Taufik Hidayat Torture Victim
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has explained that the national health insurance scheme, BPJS Kesehatan, cannot cover the medical expenses of YTR, a victim of alleged torture and false imprisonment. He noted this is a common issue for victims of criminal acts, whose claims are often rejected by BPJS. The provincial government has since allocated IDR 1 billion to cover the victim's treatment and has asked the public to cease fundraising for medical costs.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:59 WIB
Four SPPI KDMP-KNMP Participants Die During Military Training
Four participants of the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangunan Indonesia (SPPI) programme for the Red and White Village and Fishermen's Cooperatives have died during military training. The Ministry of Defence reported the deaths were due to various medical causes, including tuberculosis, heat stroke, and cardiac arrest. The ministry is conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the programme's health screening and supervision procedures.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:59 WIB
Finance Ministry plans teams to oversee MBG funds nationwide
Indonesia's Finance Ministry will deploy treasury and state asset officials across the country to strengthen oversight of the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme's budget. The move aims to prevent vested interests and ensure accountability, with evaluations planned every two months. This follows the recent appointment of a new BGN head after a corruption scandal and a significant budget cut for the programme.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:59 WIB
List of 20 East Nusa Tenggara Regional Police Officers Affected by Transfer
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has carried out a large-scale rotation of high-ranking and mid-ranking officers, including 20 personnel within the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Regional Police. The reshuffle includes the appointment of a new Kupang City Police Chief and the transfer of an officer previously implicated in an alleged extortion case. The rotation also establishes the first police chief for the newly formed Central Sumba Police Precinct.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:58 WIB
Police Arrest 69 Suspects, Uncover Modus Operandi of Gambling Disguised as Timezone Arcades
Jakarta police have arrested 69 individuals involved in an illegal gambling operation disguised as Timezone arcades. The syndicate recruited members through word-of-mouth within communities, operating in two locations in North and West Jakarta. Authorities seized over Rp 1.31 billion in cash, gold, and 139 custom gambling machines, estimating the operation's monthly turnover at Rp 2.1 billion.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:58 WIB
M6.7 Earthquake Shakes Sangihe Islands, North Sulawesi
A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck the Sangihe Islands in North Sulawesi on Friday evening, with its epicentre located 196 kilometres north of Tahuna. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed there is no tsunami potential. Tremors were also felt in parts of mainland Sulawesi, including Gorontalo, Toli-Toli, and Buol.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:56 WIB
Chinese Most Wanted Fugitive in Online Scam Case Arrested by Indonesian Police
Indonesian authorities have arrested a Chinese national listed as a most-wanted fugitive by Interpol Beijing for his alleged role in an international online scam syndicate. Zheng Rongjing was apprehended at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport after arriving in Indonesia, with police suspecting he had local facilitators ready to support his illegal activities. The arrest highlights ongoing cross-border cooperation against cybercrime networks operating in Southeast Asia.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:55 WIB
Presidential Staff Office and Cooperatives Ministry Evaluate Red and White Village Cooperatives Programme
The Presidential Staff Office and the Ministry of Cooperatives are assessing the implementation of the Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDKMP) programme to ensure it meets its targets. A coordination meeting discussed progress and addressed field obstacles, with plans to issue a presidential regulation to streamline operations. Direct inspections of 1,061 pilot cooperatives across various regions have also been agreed upon.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:55 WIB
Bank Jakarta Wins Three Awards at 23rd Infobank-MRI Banking Customer Experience Appreciation 2026
Bank Jakarta has secured three accolades at the 23rd Infobank-MRI Banking Customer Experience Appreciation 2026, highlighting its consistent service quality and digital innovation. The awards recognise the bank's excellence in branch convenience, mobile account opening, and a 15-year track record of customer experience. Management reaffirmed its commitment to continuous innovation and expanding accessible, secure banking services across its network.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:55 WIB
Indonesia's Cigarette Consumption Rises Anomalously as Other Nations Cut Back
Indonesia has seen a 7 per cent increase in tobacco consumption over the past two decades, bucking the global trend of decline and making it the world's third-largest cigarette market. The Ministry of Health warns this anomaly will lead to a surge in non-communicable diseases and a heavier financial burden on the state. The government is pushing for stronger regulations to curb smoking, particularly to prevent uptake among the youth, despite potential friction with economic interests.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:54 WIB
Finance Minister Purbaya: Report Investment Hurdles to Debottlenecking Task Force
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has urged investors facing regulatory or operational obstacles in Indonesia to report them directly to the government's Debottlenecking Task Force. He warned that ministries or regional governments failing to implement the task force's decisions could face budget cuts. The minister also highlighted Indonesia's solid economic fundamentals and 5.61% growth rate as reasons for investors to remain confident.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:53 WIB
BMKG Warns NTB Coastal Residents of Potential Tidal Flooding
The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has urged communities along the coast of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) to be vigilant for potential tidal flooding from 26 June to 4 July 2026. The phenomenon is expected to be triggered by maximum sea tides coinciding with the Strawberry Moon full moon phase. Residents in low-lying areas and those engaged in maritime activities are advised to adjust their routines accordingly.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:53 WIB
Expert says biometric verification for mobile SIM cards suitable for user identification
A cybersecurity expert has endorsed Indonesia's plan to use biometric verification for mobile SIM card registration, arguing it offers stronger authentication than identity numbers that are widely leaked online. The policy, set to begin in July 2026 for new subscribers, aims to curb digital fraud by making it harder to falsify identities. However, the expert warned that biometric data breaches carry lifelong risks and urged the government to complement the system with AI-based monitoring and cross-sector collaboration.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:52 WIB
Malaysian customs foil US$13 million AI chip smuggling bid
Malaysian customs officials have intercepted an attempt to smuggle advanced AI chips worth nearly US$13 million through Kuala Lumpur's airport free trade zone. The servers, falsely declared as computer components, were seized as part of Malaysia's tightened export controls on restricted semiconductors. The case highlights Malaysia's efforts to prevent its growing data-centre hub from being exploited as a transhipment point for sensitive technology, amid broader US-led restrictions on chip flows to China.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:51 WIB
LPSK Provides Emergency Protection to Victim of False Imprisonment and Severe Abuse in Bandung
The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has granted emergency protection to a 29-year-old woman who was allegedly severely abused and held captive in Bandung for three years. The agency is prioritising intensive medical care for the victim, who sustained serious injuries, while coordinating with police and local authorities. LPSK is also managing six protection requests from the victim, family members, and witnesses to ensure their safety and rights during the legal process.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:50 WIB
Prabowo Asks Journalists to Leave During Speech to Academics
President Prabowo Subianto requested journalists leave a convention hall during his address to thousands of academics in Jakarta, stating he wished to speak candidly. The closed-door session followed an initial half-hour open to the media at the Science, Technology, and Industry Convention. Prabowo emphasised the crucial role of academics in national development and the need for elite unity to advance the country.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:50 WIB
Fourth participant dies during SPPI military training, Defence Ministry confirms
The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of a fourth participant in the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangunan Indonesia (SPPI) basic military training programme. Muhammad Rifki Renaldi Gunawan died early Friday after experiencing shortness of breath during activities at a training unit in Jakarta. The ministry has pledged a thorough evaluation of the programme following the spate of fatalities.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:50 WIB
Weight-Loss Drug Scandal Implicates President, Lawmaker Furious with Health Secretary
A US investigative report has ignited a political firestorm after revealing that a 79-year-old patient received privileged access to an unapproved weight-loss drug, sparking speculation it was President Donald Trump. Senator Maggie Hassan has demanded answers from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., accusing the administration of using political pressure to bypass regulations for the experimental treatment.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:49 WIB
Hidden Motive Behind Brawl: Bekasi Police Reveal Robbery Plot in Ditch Deaths
Police in Bekasi have arrested five suspects linked to a street brawl that left two teenagers dead in a ditch, uncovering a hidden motive of violent robbery. The attack, initially disguised as a gang fight, was orchestrated by a repeat offender who targeted the victims' motorcycles. Authorities are still pursuing two remaining suspects and have charged those in custody under Indonesia's new criminal code, with penalties of up to 20 years in prison.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:49 WIB
Association: 0.5% MSME Income Tax Implementation Must Be Accompanied by Supervision
The Indonesian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Industry Association (Akumandiri) has urged the government to pair the new 0.5% final income tax for MSMEs with strict supervision of unscrupulous business actors. Chairwoman Hermawati Setyorinny highlighted the need for better socialisation, mentoring, and a focus on sole proprietorships that split their businesses to avoid tax obligations. She also cautioned that the regulation should not stifle micro-enterprise productivity and must be supported by market access, import restrictions, and financial literacy programmes.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:49 WIB
Police Trace Rp13.9 Trillion in Funds from Hayam Wuruk Online Gambling Case
The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) is tracing Rp13.9 trillion in funds linked to an international online gambling syndicate operating from Hayam Wuruk Plaza Tower in Jakarta. Investigators, in collaboration with the PPATK, are analysing domestic bank accounts used by four Indonesian suspects and have seized Rp8.5 billion in cash along with various foreign currencies. Authorities are preparing to apply money laundering charges as they work to identify further assets and parties involved in the network.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:47 WIB
National Nutrition Agency to pursue further budget efficiency
Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has informed the Finance Ministry of plans for significant further savings in its budget, though the exact amount remains undisclosed. The government has already reduced the 2026 allocation for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme from Rp335 trillion to Rp268 trillion, while insisting the cuts will not compromise meal quality or nutritional standards. The Finance Ministry has also offered to deploy its regional personnel to help monitor the programme's implementation across the country.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:46 WIB
Pegadaian Strengthens Services, Sweeps Three Awards at International Event
PT Pegadaian (Persero) has secured three Gold awards at the Contact Center World Asia Pacific 2026 in Putrajaya, Malaysia, underscoring its commitment to service excellence. The state-owned pawnbroker won top honours in Best Operations Contact Center, Best Use of Social Media, and Best Self-Service Technology categories. The achievement highlights the company's successful digital transformation and its alignment with global best practices in customer service.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:46 WIB
13 National Parks Targeted for Financial Independence by 2030
Indonesia is shifting towards a new conservation financing model that aims to make 13 national parks financially self-sufficient by 2030. The government is introducing innovative funding instruments, including carbon and biodiversity credits, and treating natural ecosystems as a new asset class. This initiative seeks to reduce reliance on public funding by attracting credible private investment and fostering partnerships that benefit both the environment and local communities.
Fri, 26 Jun 2026, 18:45 WIB
Global Oil Price Drop Secures Indonesia's Fiscal Safety, Says Official
Indonesia's fiscal position is now secure following a decline in global crude oil prices, according to a senior finance official. The price drop is expected to ease the burden on the state budget and keep the deficit under control.