Teguh Boediyana, Executive Director of the Indonesian Meat Entrepreneurs and Processors Association (APPDI), urged the government to release the stalled 100,000-ton regular beef import quota. He emphasized that this quota is crucial for sustaining the meat industry from upstream to downstream, particularly in sectors like culinary, which rely on a stable beef supply. Business owners typically plan their operations a year in advance, but the lack of certainty from the government has disrupted these plans. Without a clear import policy, businesses face operational challenges that could lead to mass layoffs.
Industry associations, including APPDI and others, have formally requested the reinstatement of the quota, citing the drastic reduction from 180,000 tons to 80,000 tons as a major source of business uncertainty. With only 40% of the required supply available, meeting consumer demand for 2025 remains a challenge. The government has stated that the additional 100,000-ton quota will be reconsidered once 50% of the initial allocation is realized. While this phased approach aims to regulate imports, businesses are urging a faster decision to ensure economic stability and prevent supply shortages by year-end.
