The National Food Agency reported that the current stock of the Government Rice Reserve stands at 4.9 million tons.
This figure represents an increase of approximately 221 percent compared to the peak of the previous El Niño period.
The government described this level as the highest rice stock in Indonesia’s history and projected that it would soon surpass 5 million tons.
The Head of the National Food Agency stated that Indonesia is now better prepared to face the threat of El Niño, which could potentially last up to six months.
According to the government, the experience of dealing with El Niño in 2015, 2023, and 2024 serves as a crucial foundation for taking earlier preventive measures.
This increase in rice stocks is also supported by rising domestic production.
The government stated that starting in 2025, Indonesia will no longer import rice.
In the April 2026 Rice Outlook report from the United States Department of Agriculture, Indonesia’s rice imports were recorded to have dropped significantly to 3.8 million tons compared to the previous year.
Additionally, the national food situation is considered secure because Indonesia is not only self-sufficient in rice but also has a surplus of protein commodities such as chicken and eggs.
These commodities are even said to have entered the export market.
The government believes this achievement has a positive impact on farmers’ welfare, as evidenced by the recent increase in the Farmer’s Price Index.
Overall, large rice stocks and strong domestic production are considered a crucial foundation for national food security in 2026.