President to Launch Mandatory B50 Biodiesel Program Today

President Prabowo Subianto is set to launch the mandatory B50 biodiesel program today, marking a significant step in Indonesia's pursuit of energy independence. The launch event is scheduled for Thursday, July 9, 2026, at a rest area in Karawang, West Java. This program mandates that 50 percent of all diesel fuel sold must be a blend of biodiesel. The initiative is a continuation of the previous B40 program and is considered a strategic policy to decrease reliance on imported fuels, enhance the value of national natural resources, and strengthen Indonesia's energy and economic resilience. Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia will accompany the President at the launch. The B50 mandate is underpinned by Ministerial Regulation ESDM Number 4 of 2025 concerning the Business and Utilization of Biofuels and Ministerial Decree ESDM Number 257.K/EK.01/MEM.E/2026, which specifies the 50 percent blending requirement. Fuel business entities that fail to comply with the blending obligations or biofuel producers who do not supply biodiesel according to their targets face administrative sanctions. These sanctions can range from written warnings to temporary suspension of activities, and in severe cases, revocation of business permits.