High Chilli Prices: Andra Soni Urges Planting Movement for Food Security

Banten Governor Andra Soni has announced plans for a Planting Movement to support food security. He identified chillies as one of the crops that could be developed in household gardens.

“Considering the current situation and the potential of Banten Province, it is time we launched a movement—the Planting Movement. This is important so that the needs that can be met by the community themselves, such as perhaps chillies and chicken eggs,” said Andra Soni during remarks at a Ramadan bazaar in Serang City on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

However, he noted that the movement would require participation from all stakeholders. “We need to create this movement by optimising collaboration with various parties,” said Andra.

Meanwhile, Iwan Hermawan, head of the Provincial Trade and Industry Office, reported that current chilli prices remain relatively high. Prices are already elevated at the farm level.

“For example, red bird’s eye chilli prices are already Rp 75,000 at the farm level, so we cannot possibly see prices below Rp 75,000 in the market, and they could reach as high as Rp 100,000,” he said.

According to Iwan, weather conditions have driven price increases. Poor weather has reduced harvest yields and hindered distribution.

“Distribution has also been somewhat impeded by weather, and product damage rates have increased with these rainy conditions. There is significant loss—a sack of chillies can lose up to 5 kilogrammes,” he said.

Regarding supply, however, the Banten provincial government has assured that market supplies remain secure. “God willing, for supplies we monitor from the central market, the wholesale market, and the smaller markets below the wholesale market—all remain well-stocked,” he said.