(KPL/VNA) Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has revealed that Indonesia is targeting to stop importing corn from 2026 when it is hoping to achieve self-sufficiency in corn production.

He was quoted by local media as making the statement at a simultaneous corn harvest and the launch of Indonesia’s first corn exports to Malaysia in West Kalimantan, based on a report from Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman.

President Prabowo noted that in 2024, the country imported around 500,000 tonnes of corn. Meanwhile, total dry corn output from January to July 2025 is estimated at 9.45 million tonnes, an increase of 0.94 million tonnes, equivalent to 11.08% rise over the same period last year.

The President noted that national corn production climbed 48% in the first quarter of 2025, from 4 tonnes per hectare to between 6-8 tonnes per hectare.

The National Police of Indonesia is supporting the government on a large-scale corn cultivation project, the One Million Hectare Corn Planting Programme, to boost production.

According to the President, Indonesia may achieve corn self-sufficiency sooner than expected, potentially within one year, supported by the use of high-quality seed varieties and organic fertilisers.

He also emphasised the importance of innovation in processing agricultural harvests and diversifying corn-based products to include corn chips and corn rice, which, he said, are healthier and have higher added value.

In addition, the President highlighted the need to ensure that the increase in production also translates into improved farmer welfare. He suggested support to farmers through the provision of machinery, technology, seeds, fertilisers and bio fertilisers.

KPL