Central Java Poultry Farmers Protest Soaring Feed Prices, Low Egg Sales

Members of the Koperasi Peternak Unggas Sejahtera (KPUS) in Central Java held peaceful demonstrations in several districts on Monday (10/8/2026), including Kendal, Temanggung, Magelang, Pekalongan, Wonosobo, Pati, and Grobogan. KPUS Central Java Chairman Suwardi stated the action was driven by the continuous rise in poultry feed prices, which have increased by 25 percent from April to August. He noted that while feed costs are soaring, the selling price of eggs has plummeted to a low of Rp 15,000 per kilogramme at the farm level, creating a severe imbalance between production costs and revenue that is causing losses for breeders.

Suwardi also highlighted that the government’s free nutritious meal programme (MBG) has not provided a significant boost to the sector. Despite agreements and official memos, he claimed that local nutrition fulfilment service offices (KPPG) lack authority, as purchasing decisions are controlled by kitchen managers, rendering the programme’s impact minimal. He pointed out that while the Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Sudaryono had suggested purchases at Rp 25,000 per kilogramme, the actual farm-gate price is often only Rp 21,000 to Rp 22,000 per kilogramme, with only a few kitchens committing to the higher price.

Suwardi explained that the association has held meetings with the Central Java Governor and the Minister of Agriculture, but no concrete solutions have been offered. The farmers’ main demands are a reduction in feed prices and an increase in the quota of subsidised maize (SPHP) for breeders, which is priced at Rp 5,500 per kilogramme compared to the market price of Rp 6,800 to Rp 7,000. He warned that if their demands are not met, farmers will march to the State Palace to seek direct protection from the President. KPUS Central Java represents 1,767 breeder members across ten districts and cities.