Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, has unveiled plans for exporting durians directly to China. The initiative aims to establish a direct logistics route to China from durian agricultural centers, starting with a recent visit to Parigi Moutong Regency in Central Sulawesi Province. Currently, Indonesian durian exports transit through neighboring countries like Malaysia and Thailand, reaching hundreds of millions of dollars in value. Recognizing China as the primary destination for durians, with imports totaling nearly USD 7-8 billion annually, Luhut emphasized the need for a direct logistics channel to enhance efficiency and capitalize on this significant market. He shared these plans via a video post on his official Instagram account @luhut.pandjaitan on Tuesday (16/7/2024). Additionally, the government is focusing on revitalizing idle lands across Indonesia. The aim is to utilize these lands for agriculture based on their respective local conditions, supported by soil testing, location suitability assessments, seed selection, and appropriate fertilization practices.
Furthermore, there is a push for the development of durian seed engineering using genomic technology. Luhut disclosed that 2,000 hectares of land have been earmarked for durian cultivation, with the first 100 hectares already planted and undergoing genomic enhancement. This initiative reflects a more professional approach towards agricultural development that was previously neglected. Luhut emphasized the vast potential for agricultural growth in Indonesia, urging a focused and dedicated approach to farming. He highlighted that agriculture should be regarded as a paramount sector for national development rather than a secondary pursuit. By implementing these strategies, Luhut aims to bolster Indonesia's position in the global durian market, ensuring sustainable growth and economic benefits for the country.
