Dry Season Arrives, Salt Production in 2026 Could Surge 450%

National salt production in 2026 is expected to rise significantly, potentially by 450%, as the dry season caused by the El Niño phenomenon provides optimal conditions for harvest. PT Garam’s President Director, Abraham Mose, expressed optimism that the company can achieve its production target of 380,000 to 400,000 tonnes this year, having commenced harvesting several months prior. The increase is also expected to help meet the demand for food-grade salt, reducing reliance on imports. The government is focusing on intensification and extensification strategies, including the development of the National Salt Industry Centre (K-SIGN) in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara. This area is being developed in stages on 10,000 hectares of land, with 731 hectares already completed. Once fully operational, the K-SIGN project is projected to significantly boost both the quantity and quality of national salt output. Additionally, the adoption of new technology is being pursued to enhance production efficiency and safeguard against unpredictable weather patterns.