The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has emphasized the importance of optimizing red onion production through both export and the development of a comprehensive upstream-to-downstream ecosystem. According to Arief Prasetyo Adi, Head of Bapanas, the government is focused on maintaining farmer prices and preparing standby buyers, as red onions serve both local consumption and export needs. With increasing production, particularly in key areas like Brebes, Central Java, the government aims to manage prices and utilize surplus through exports. The government is preparing red onions for export to Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam, with grading and sorting tailored to meet export specifications. In Brebes, up to 7 containers per week are prepared for export, supported by a workforce of up to 200 people. Bapanas, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, local governments, and state-owned enterprises like Bulog and ID FOOD, has committed to off-take 12,500 tons of red onions, ensuring better price stability for farmers. Off-taker commitments include 10,000 tons from Bulog, 2,000 tons from ID FOOD, and 500 tons from Central Java’s regional state-owned enterprises. The National Statistics Agency (BPS) reported that the Horticultural Farmers’ Exchange Rate (NTPH) remained above 100 points in July, at 120.44, higher than early 2024 levels. The index for vegetable prices, including red onions, was at 155.27 in July, better than 147.68 in January 2024. The purchase price agreed upon for red onions is IDR 16,000 per kilogram, applicable across various production regions, with future agreements involving collaboration with Champion Bawang Merah to ensure effective implementation of these commitments.

Source: https://www.antaranews.com/berita/4235719/bapanas-ekspor-dan-pembangunan-ekosistem-optimalkan-bawang-merah