Indonesia plans to implement a nationwide single rice price policy starting in 2026 as part of efforts to reduce price disparities across regions, Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan has said.
Hasan said the policy is designed to ensure uniform rice prices nationwide, including in eastern Indonesia, with the government providing financial support for distribution to address logistical challenges.
“We do not want eastern Indonesia to pay higher prices. In 2026, we will strive to apply a single rice price nationwide,” he said after a coordination meeting on food affairs.
He explained that the plan would require strengthening the role of the state-owned logistics agency, Bulog, particularly in managing rice distribution and maintaining national price stability.
According to Hasan, the government has discussed providing Bulog with an assignment margin to ensure adequate financing for the effective execution of its responsibilities.
Authorities also reviewed national rice supply conditions, noting projections that the main harvest season may begin earlier than usual, potentially starting in February, a development expected to support price stability.
Indicative reference prices under consideration include 14,900 rupiahs per kilogram for premium rice and 13,500 rupiahs per kilogram for medium rice.
Under Bulog’s subsidised food supply and price stabilisation programme, rice for lower-income groups is sold at between 11,000 and 12,000 rupiahs per kilogram.
Hasan said preparations for the single-price rice policy are ongoing and will require coordinated support in areas such as distribution, financing, and infrastructure.