Indonesia’s rice boom: Record 13.95 million tons in early 2025

Compared to the same period in 2024, when production stood at just 11.07 million tons, this represents a staggering 25.99% increase

JAKARTA, Indonesia (MNTV) – Indonesia’s rice production is set to reach a historic high of 13.95 million tons in the first four months of 2025.

This marks the highest output in the same period over the past seven years, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS).

Rice is a staple in Indonesia, where many believe a meal is incomplete without it. There is even a saying that Indonesians will not feel full if they have not eaten rice.

This grain is always on the menu in the government’s free lunch program, although some schools have tried to experiment with sweet potatoes.

Despite its significance, the country has long relied on imports to meet domestic demand. However, with production surging, Indonesia may finally be in a position to phase out foreign rice purchases.

BPS chief Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti revealed that March alone will see a peak of 5.48 million tons, with a slight dip to 4.97 million tons in April.

Compared to the same period in 2024, when production stood at just 11.07 million tons, this represents a staggering 25.99% increase.

According to media reports, the government remains upbeat that Indonesia can produce 32 million tons of rice this year. National demand for this grain is expected to hit 31 million tons.

In other words, this will leave a 1-million-ton surplus that the country could add to its supplies. This would also mean that Jakarta would not need to buy foreign-grown rice in 2025.