Indonesians struggle with record-high rice prices
Indonesian housewife Sutinah joined hundreds at a local police station before dawn, seeking affordable rice amid a shortage and record-high prices. Despite self-sufficiency struggles since the 1980s, rice remains a staple for over 90% of families, but production fell 18% last year due to El Nino.
With the dry season looming, concerns grow over further price hikes impacting the poorer segments. Rice isn’t just sustenance; it’s cultural identity and landscape.
Rising prices risk food insecurity, debt for farmers, and social unrest, highlighting the critical need for sustainable solutions in Indonesia’s rice industry.
High rice prices since January
In January, Rice prices surged across Indonesia during the second half of 2023 as the effects of El Niño led to widespread crop failures.
In December 2024, President Joko Widodo ordered military personnel to help farmers plant rice in a bid to boost domestic production, and curb food price inflation.
On Buru Island, farmers described risks of conflict as water scarcity forced farmers to queue for access to water.
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