Banyuwangi Regency has officially launched the country’s first industrial-scale ecosystem for biofortified rice, a collaborative initiative involving Pandawa Agri Indonesia, Danone-AQUA, IPB University, local government, Bulog, and Bank Indonesia. The project was inaugurated during a harvest festival on June 25, 2025, alongside a Memorandum of Understanding signing to strengthen food security, improve nutrition, and stabilize food prices. This ecosystem promotes nutrient-rich rice varieties such as Nutrizinc, IPB 9G, and IPB 15S—enhanced with iron and zinc to help reduce stunting and “hidden hunger.” The project aligns with national goals for climate resilience and a healthier food system.
Early trials on five hectares have shown strong results, and the program is expanding to 500 hectares next year. Supported by sustainable technologies such as Pandawa’s PPAI® and water-saving AWD irrigation, the initiative significantly reduces methane emissions and water use while maintaining productivity. Research from IPB shows the combined methods improve water efficiency by 213% and cut methane emissions by 24%. The ecosystem also ensures market access through institutional buyers like Bulog, providing both food traceability and stable pricing. With broad support from government and financial institutions, the program strengthens regional food competitiveness and contributes to national efforts on climate goals and nutritional improvement.
