The Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Sudaryono, affirmed that ongoing investments in the cattle farming sector will prioritize the involvement of local farmers. He emphasized that these significant investments, aimed at meeting domestic beef demand, will advance the livelihoods of Indonesian cattle farmers. “We will support everything from licensing to the absorption of livestock products, for large companies, small enterprises, and cooperatives,” Sudaryono stated during a visit to PT Bumi Rojo Koyo in Banyuwangi, East Java, as conveyed in a press release from Jakarta on Monday. According to Sudaryono, or "Mas Dar," these efforts align with the government’s commitment to enhancing farmer welfare and ensuring sustainable domestic beef supply. He highlighted that the government has introduced regulations facilitating investments in the cattle industry, benefiting both local and foreign investors.
One notable initiative is importing cattle from Brazil, a country with a vast cattle population suited to Indonesia’s tropical climate. “Government regulations now permit imports from Brazil, which boasts around 200,000 tropical-adapted cattle,” Sudaryono remarked. Additionally, Brazil's cattle exports ensure freedom from foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), given its status as an FMD-free zone. “Brazil is ready to export healthy cattle without FMD concerns,” he added. These efforts support the government's readiness to fulfill national beef needs, including supplying ingredients for the free nutrition program launching this month. “This program requires large-scale raw materials, partly met through increased cattle production,” he explained. Through collaboration between the government, local farmers, and private investments, Sudaryono expressed optimism about the rapid development of Indonesia’s cattle farming sector, improving farmer welfare and strengthening national food security.
