Indonesia's Food Agency Partners with Importers to Bolster Garlic Supply to Eastern Regions

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) is partnering with importers and distributors to strengthen garlic supplies, particularly to eastern Indonesia, aiming to keep prices stable and ensure consistent distribution. The agency recognizes the logistical hurdles in reaching these regions and is seeking solutions to improve availability.

I Gusti Ketut Astawa, Deputy for Food Availability and Stabilization at Bapanas, stated that importers and distributors will be optimized to channel supplies to eastern Indonesia. "We will gather importers, along with distributors. After that, distribution will be carried out to the eastern regions, because we need to maintain prices there. Distribution is still relatively difficult, and we must find a solution," Ketut explained.

Bapanas is also monitoring market conditions, including at the Kramat Jati Main Market in Jakarta. While the supply of 'honan' garlic is generally stable with prices slightly decreasing, the 'kating' variety, which is more popular, faces limited supply from abroad and high domestic demand. This has led to a price increase for 'kating' garlic, prompting Bapanas to coordinate with importers for increased shipments.

The agency hopes that by increasing the supply of 'kating' garlic, prices can be controlled and market stability maintained. The Kramat Jati Main Market serves as a key distribution hub, supplying not only Jakarta but also various other regions across Indonesia, making its stock levels a barometer for national distribution.

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We will gather importers, along with distributors. After that, distribution will be carried out to the eastern regions, because we need to maintain prices there. Distribution is still relatively difficult, and we must find a solution.