Chili prices surge in Indonesia amid food security initiatives

Chili prices in Indonesia have seen significant increases, with red bird's eye chili (cabai rawit merah) reaching approximately Rp99,850 per kilogram, a rise of 4.17 percent. Other chili varieties also experienced hikes, including large red chilies, which rose 4.43 percent to Rp60,050 per kilogram, and curly red chilies, which increased by 2.15 percent to Rp71,300 per kilogram.

In response to the impact of chili on food security and inflation, the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) Authority, in collaboration with Bank Indonesia, hosted the 2026 Nusantara Chili Festival at Nusantara Park. The event aimed to support national food security programs, expand market access for farmers, and address the commodity's role in driving inflation.

While chili prices surged, other food commodities showed mixed trends. Prices for shallots, rice, chicken, beef, and premium sugar recorded slight decreases according to data from the National Strategic Food Price Information Center (PIHPS).