Democratic Party politician and MPR Deputy Speaker Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) has called on the Indonesian government to take a more active role in elevating the country's coffee industry to the global market. Emphasizing the importance of farmers' welfare, economic opportunities, and intergenerational connectivity, Ibas highlighted that strong government support, improved regulations, and targeted facilitation are essential for making Indonesian coffee more competitive worldwide.
He pointed out that the sustainability of the coffee industry hinges on ensuring fair returns for farmers through equitable pricing standards. Ibas also underlined several pressing challenges in the sector, including diminishing land availability due to urban expansion, inconsistent yields due to climate variability, and inefficiencies in traditional farming methods. He advocated for the adoption of modern agricultural technologies, including artificial intelligence, to enhance productivity and improve profit margins for farmers. Additionally, Ibas stressed the need for regulations that empower MSMEs and strengthen the coffee value chain. He reaffirmed his commitment to overseeing policies that support fair trade, agricultural advancement, and global market expansion, emphasizing that a thriving coffee sector would not only benefit farmers but also contribute to national economic growth.
