Food Task Force Monitors Commodity Prices in Banyumas; Rice Stocks Declared Secure
Perum Bulog Banyumas Branch Office, alongside the Banyumas Regional Police Food Task Force, conducted intensive monitoring of food commodity prices and availability in several traditional markets on Monday (8/6). This measure was taken to ensure supply stability following Eid al-Adha and in preparation for the Islamic New Year, 1 Muharram 1448 Hijriah.
The monitoring, carried out at Wage Purwokerto Market and Manis Banyumas Market, involved the Banyumas Regency Agriculture Office as well as the Office of Cooperatives, SMEs, and Trade. The results indicated that food prices generally remain stable with adequate supplies available.
Prawoko Setyo Aji, Head of the Perum Bulog Banyumas Branch Office, stated that public purchasing power is currently at a normal level. “From the results of our joint monitoring, food commodity prices in Banyumas Regency are relatively stable. There are no issues regarding supply,” said Prawoko.
Despite the stability, there have been reports of a price increase for premium rice at the milling level by approximately Rp200 to Rp300 per kg due to a reduction in paddy supplies. However, Prawoko emphasised that the availability of rice under the Food Supply and Price Stabilisation (SPHP) Programme serves as an effective instrument to mitigate price volatility.
On the other hand, the demand for rice is currently tending to level off. This is influenced by the ongoing distribution of government food assistance, consisting of rice and cooking oil, to eligible beneficiaries.
The Food Task Force also issued a stern warning to traders to continue adhering to the Maximum Retail Price (HET) and to maintain reasonable profit margins. Traders were urged to report any distribution obstacles immediately so that they can be addressed by market managers or relevant authorities.
“We guarantee that rice stocks in the Greater Banyumas area are secure. The public does not need to worry as Bulog continues to ensure that distribution runs smoothly,” concluded Prawoko.
SPHP rice is sold at Rp58,500 per 5kg package, or approximately Rp11,700 per kg, with field prices ranging between Rp11,700 and Rp12,300 per kg.