Indonesia is set to end industrial salt imports by 2027, according to Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono. The government plans to achieve this target by adopting modern technology and utilizing Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) as a hub for high-quality salt production. Trenggono emphasized NTT’s geographical and climatic advantages, with long dry seasons supporting high productivity. The pilot project, led by PT Garam and potentially other state-owned enterprises, will focus on Sabu and Malaka regions. The initiative is currently in the business planning and cost evaluation phase, with government funding expected to play a critical role. Trenggono stated, “The President has approved this plan, and we are preparing to move forward.”
The main challenge is producing industrial-grade salt with a minimum purity of 97% NaCl, compared to the current local standard of 95%. Trenggono assured that modern technology would enable Indonesia to meet this standard, similar to Australia’s high-quality production. The minister expressed confidence in reaching self-sufficiency by 2027, highlighting that available land in NTT and technology adaptation from Australia provide a solid foundation. “With sufficient funding and government commitment, we can achieve this goal,” Trenggono said. The project aligns with Indonesia’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on imports and boost domestic production capacity, ensuring economic resilience and competitiveness.
