Indonesia implements agribusiness reforms and digital farming initiatives

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture is launching a strategic transformation of the national agribusiness system, specifically targeting dryland areas. Through the Horticulture Development in Dryland Areas Sector Project (HDDAP), funded by the Asian Development Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the government is establishing Farmer Economic Institutions (KEP) to create a self-sustaining ecosystem. This program covers 7 provinces and 13 regencies, aiming to support approximately 25,000 farmers and establish up to 350 horticulture cooperatives.

In Central Java, agricultural modernization is being driven by digital initiatives such as the Tani Digital program in Sragen. This program utilizes Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence to monitor soil conditions and improve productivity. These technological advancements aim to stabilize food supplies and manage price fluctuations for essential commodities like chili.

Additionally, political groups such as Partai Ummat are engaging in grassroots agricultural activities, including large-scale harvests in West Java, to address uneven welfare distribution among rural farmers.