Minister suspects market manipulation driving increase in rice prices
Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman has expressed concerns about the recent increase in rice prices in the lead-up to Ramadan, attributing this rise to potential market manipulation rather than actual supply shortages. Despite a significant increase in national rice production in the previous year, prices have not reflected the ample stock available. Amran Sulaiman issued warnings that price manipulation would not be tolerated and indicated that steps would be taken to address any such acts.
To address the issue of rising rice prices and ensure the success of food self-sufficiency programs in Indonesia, the Ministry of Agriculture has taken steps to streamline costs and optimize resources. By reevaluating expenses related to official trips and relocating meetings to more cost-effective venues, efforts to accelerate food self-sufficiency have been prioritized. Amran Sulaiman emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote food security and independence in the country.
Observations from the National Food Agency’s price panel on February 25, 2025, revealed an increase in the national average price of premium rice compared to the previous day. The price of premium rice rose to Rp15,518 per kilogram, representing a 0.15 percent increase. Similarly, medium rice and the supply and price stabilization of staple food also experienced consistent upticks in prices. The national average prices for these staple foods stood at Rp13,658 and Rp12,542 per kilogram, respectively. Despite a slight decrease in the price of SPHP rice from Rp12,551 to Rp12,542 per kilogram, challenges regarding rising rice costs persist.
The Minister’s concerns about potential market manipulation impacting rice prices underscore the broader challenges faced in ensuring stable food prices and sufficient supplies for the upcoming Ramadan season. By addressing issues relating to cost-effectiveness and resource optimization, efforts to promote food self-sufficiency are being prioritized. As the government takes proactive steps to investigate and address any malpractices influencing rice prices, the commitment to supporting food security and independence in Indonesia remains unwavering.
