Batam government implements measures to stabilize food prices

The Batam City Government is implementing measures to stabilize commodity prices and control regional inflation. While Batam recorded an annual inflation rate of 4.33 percent in July 2026—exceeding the national target of 3.5 percent—the city experienced a monthly deflation of 0.26 percent during the same period.

Major contributors to annual inflation include transportation, food, tobacco, restaurants, and personal care services. However, monitoring during the fourth week of August 2026 indicated that staple food prices remained relatively stable, with some items such as green bird's eye chilies and shrimp seeing price decreases.

Mayor Amsakar Achmad stated that the government is focused on ensuring safe supplies, smooth distribution, and timely interventions to maintain public purchasing power. Efforts include market inspections, subsidized market operations, and the ‘GASING’ mobile inflation control program. Additionally, the government has initiated a planting movement by preparing 50 hectares of chili horticulture areas to bolster local supply.