Gapki Distributes Palm Oil Genetic Resources from Tanzania in North Sumatra
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Palm Oil Entrepreneurs Association (Gapki), together with PT Riset Perkebunan Nusantara (RPN) and PT Socfin Indonesia, is collaborating to enrich palm oil genetic resources by importing and distributing Tanzanian-origin palm oil genetic resource seeds in North Sumatra.
Gapki General Chairman Eddy Martono stated that genetic resources form the primary foundation for enhancing palm oil plant productivity, resistance to pests and diseases, and adaptation to climate change.
“With the arrival of these new genetic resources from Tanzania, we are opening up significant opportunities to further enrich the genetic diversity we possess,” said Eddy in a statement in Jakarta on Wednesday.
The release of the Tanzanian genetic resources and the enrichment of germplasm for the new generation of Indonesian palm oil took place at the Tanah Besih Estate in Serdang Bedagai Regency, North Sumatra, on Tuesday (5/5/2026).
Eddy explained that this distribution is a follow-up to the Research Initiative of the Directorate General of Plantations, Ministry of Agriculture, which focuses on enriching palm oil genetic resources through international exploration, particularly from Tanzania.
The programme also receives funding support from the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP).
This represents a strategic step in expanding the diversity of Indonesia’s palm oil germplasm.
Genetic diversity is considered a key factor in producing superior varieties that are more productive, adaptive to climate change, and resistant to various environmental stresses.
“Today, we are not only distributing genetic resources but looking towards a new future for Indonesian palm oil productivity,” said Eddy.
The main objectives include strengthening the genetic foundation of plants, enhancing collaboration among stakeholders, and encouraging the emergence of new superior varieties capable of addressing future challenges in the palm oil industry.
“We view collaboration between the government, business actors, research institutions, and international partners as extremely important. The distribution of these genetic resources is not merely a technical activity but part of joint efforts to strengthen the competitiveness of the Indonesian palm oil industry on the global stage,” explained Eddy.
Aprida Cristin, Director of Plant Quarantine Risk Management, representing the Head of the Indonesian Quarantine Agency, stated that the importation of Tanzanian palm oil genetic resource seeds is a strategic step in supporting the development of the national agricultural sector, particularly in increasing the productivity and competitiveness of Indonesian palm oil commodities.
“Every importation of biological materials into Indonesia, including genetic resources such as Tanzanian palm oil seeds, is strictly monitored to ensure it does not bring risks that could disrupt Indonesia’s ecosystem,” said Aprida.
Aprida explained that before being permitted entry by the Minister of Agriculture, the seeds underwent comprehensive plant pest risk analysis stages.
Subsequently, a series of plant quarantine measures were carried out, from inspection, isolation, observation, to release.
“This entire lengthy process is the application of the precautionary principle, which is the main foundation of quarantine, to prevent the entry and spread of quarantine plant pests, while protecting the health of various biological commodities and the preservation of national genetic resources,” said Aprida.
Mohammad Alfansyah from the BPDP Fund Distribution Directorate emphasised BPDP’s commitment to promoting the sustainability of the palm oil industry through various strategic research initiatives.
“BPDP is committed to supporting strategic research initiatives. Funding support is part of efforts to strengthen the palm oil industry,” he said.
General Manager of PT Socfin Indonesia, Erikson Ginting, expressed pride in being part of the Tanzanian genetic resource release activity, which he believes will bring significant benefits to the company.
“These genetic resources will provide tangible benefits and a new boost to competitiveness. Socfin is always ready to be part of strengthening the palm oil industry,” said Erikson.