Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman said authorities sealed a privately owned rice warehouse in Sabang, Aceh, after uncovering the illegal importation of 250 tonnes of rice from Thailand.
“Without a permit from the central government, we immediately called the regional police chief,” Sulaiman said at a press conference on Sunday.
The shipment arrived in Indonesia on November 16, 2025, but was not opened until November 22, when it was delivered to the Sabang warehouse.
The company responsible for the illegal import is identified by the initials PT MSG.
Sulaiman said he was receiving medical treatment when the case emerged, but concluded it to take action in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to protect national food stability.
“Mr. President has said no imports while stocks are abundant. All civil servants must follow this directive. Today, we seal the warehouse and urge a full investigation,” he said.
The minister noted that Indonesia’s national rice stocks are strong, nearing their highest levels ahead of year-end. Illegal imports threaten food stability and the country’s goal of self-sufficiency.
Sulaiman praised law enforcement for swift action against the illicit shipment.
He said suspicion arose because the import permit was issued before a November 14 coordination meeting in Jakarta, suggesting prior planning.
When asked about the permit, stakeholders reportedly opposed the import, Sulaiman added.
He stressed that cheaper Thai and Vietnamese rice should not justify imports, as domestic production is sufficient to maintain stable prices.
Some countries requested extra rice export quotas to Indonesia, but the President rejected them due to adequate national production.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to investigate. A court ruling will determine the rice’s fate, and no stock will be distributed in the meantime, Sulaiman said.
He emphasized the importance of food self-sufficiency, urging citizens to support national policies and uphold the country’s dignity.
