Prabowo States Foreign Nations Seeking Rice Purchases are Requesting Discounts
President Prabowo Subianto has stated that a number of countries are requesting discounts or price reductions when purchasing rice from Indonesia. This was disclosed by Prabowo during the inauguration of the operationalisation of 1,601 Merah Putih Cooperatives in Nganjuk, East Java, last Saturday.
According to the President, many nations are facing food security challenges due to conflicts in the Middle East, which have led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Consequently, many countries have begun approaching Indonesia to purchase rice, recognising that Indonesia’s food supply is adequate. Prabowo noted that these nations include neighbouring countries that often consider themselves more advanced than Indonesia. “They want to buy rice from us. Our neighbours… those who consider themselves greater than us, right? But now they must come to Indonesia and ask, ‘Is it possible for us to buy rice?’” Prabowo remarked.
He explained that this trend is occurring because many countries have chosen to halt the export of their food commodities. However, because Indonesia has achieved self-sufficiency, there is a surplus of production available for export. “As it turns out, a few days ago, India announced a closure. No exports of rice, maize, or wheat. India closed! Followed by Bangladesh closing. Eventually, there are countries that have come to us. And I said, give it! If they need it, we must help,” Prabowo stated.
Naturally, the value of Indonesia’s food commodity exports during such periods of conflict will not be sold at a loss. He assessed that Indonesian farmers can be made prosperous without setting unreasonable prices. “We sell to them. But the price must be appropriate. Our farmers must not be victims! The price must ensure at least a small profit. Do not sell too cheaply. Remember, this crisis could last a long time. Our priority is to secure our own people first,” he asserted.
Beyond rice, Prabowo mentioned receiving reports from the Minister of Agriculture that several countries are also requesting fertiliser supplies from Indonesia. He specifically noted that Australia has requested assistance in purchasing 500,000 tonnes of urea from Indonesia. In addition to Australia, Prabowo stated that other nations, including the Philippines, India, Bangladesh, and Brazil, have also requested fertiliser supplies. “My order is to help everyone,” said Prabowo. In response to these requests, the President stated that the government has decided to assist these nations, noting that Indonesia’s position is shifting towards being a nation capable of providing aid. “We are not euphoric, nor are we arrogant. But we are now on the side that can provide assistance,” he concluded.