PT SGN Optimistic Ratoon Clearing Programme Will Accelerate Sugar Self-Sufficiency

PT Sinergi Gula Nusantara (SGN) President Director Mahmudi expressed optimism that the ratoon clearing programme, underway since 2025, will accelerate the achievement of the sugar self-sufficiency target. “The consumption sugar self-sufficiency target was previously projected for 2028. However, with government support through various strategic programmes, including ratoon clearing, we are optimistic this target can be achieved sooner,” he said in a statement in Surabaya on Monday. As a state-owned enterprise in the sugar sector, Mahmudi emphasised that PT SGN is ready to fully support the government’s strategic measures to strengthen the national sugar industry. He noted that various programmes to increase productivity, rejuvenate plantations, and strengthen financing for farmers are believed to be an important foundation for achieving national food independence. Furthermore, the ratoon clearing effort is accompanied by other strategic steps such as strengthening the sugar industry ecosystem through the release of superior sugarcane varieties and the People’s Business Credit (KUR) scheme with a flat 6 percent interest rate. Through this scheme, farmers can obtain access to financing of up to IDR 500 million to support the development of their farming businesses and increase productivity. Mahmudi also pointed out that government support has had a real impact on increasing national sugarcane productivity, citing President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to lead a simultaneous sugarcane harvest in Malang Regency, East Java. He affirmed that PT SGN will continue to strengthen collaboration with the government, farmers, and all stakeholders to increase sugarcane productivity, accelerate plant rejuvenation, and encourage the realisation of sugar self-sufficiency to support Indonesia’s food security.