Brazil ready to supply soybeans for Indonesia's free meal program

Speaking at the Brazil Pavilion during the Food & Hospitality Indonesia (FHI) 2026 expo, Turchetto highlighted that the nationwide school lunch initiative—a key priority of President Prabowo Subianto—presents a major export opportunity for Brazilian produce.

“We know that tempeh and tofu are very important menu items in this program, and Brazil is ready to help Indonesia with soybean supplies,” Turchetto said, emphasizing that Brazil offers high-quality soybeans at competitive prices.

He added that steady soybean imports from Brazil could help bolster Indonesia’s national reserves and curb domestic price inflation for the staple crop.

According to Turchetto, the Brazilian Embassy has held extensive discussions with Indonesia’s Ministry of Agriculture regarding additional commodity exports, including beef and poultry, to support both the MBG program and broader public food security.

The South American nation is already a key supplier of halal-certified meat to Indonesia.

Three private halal certification bodies in Brazil are currently recognized by Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH).

“Currently, 52 Brazilian companies are approved to export to Indonesia. Just last month, the Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture sent auditors to Brazil to inspect an additional 21 companies,” Turchetto noted, adding that he expects more firms to gain clearance soon.

Turchetto attributed the strengthening trade ties in part to Indonesia becoming a full member of the BRICS bloc in January 2025.

“This proximity between countries in forums like BRICS and the friendship between our presidents are very important for trade, because bureaucratic matters become easier for both parties to resolve,” he said.

The Brazilian Embassy hosted 10 businesses at this year’s FHI expo, showcasing products including acai, sorbet, wine, and coffee.