The National Food Agency (Bapanas) nesia has temporarily increased the Highest Retail Price (HET) for premium rice by IDR 1,000 per kilogram (kg) to manage rice availability across various regions. This adjustment, effective from March 10 to March 23, targets eight regions and sets the new HET for premium rice at IDR 14,900 per kg in Java, Lampung, and South Sumatra, up from the previous HET of IDR 13,900 per kg. This decision aims to ensure better rice supply and stability in the market during this period.
Differing HET adjustments have been implemented across Indonesia, reflecting regional variations in rice market dynamics. For instance, in regions like Aceh, North Sumatra, West Sumatra, Bengkulu, Riau, Riau Islands, Jambi, and Bangka Belitung Islands, the new HET is set at IDR 15,400 per kg, increasing from IDR 14,400 per kg. Similar adjustments have been made in other regions, including Bali, Nusa Tenggara, East Nusa Tenggara, Sulawesi, and Kalimantan, with the HET ranging from IDR 14,900 to IDR 15,400 per kg. The Maluku and Papua regions have seen the highest increase, with the new HET set at IDR 15,800 per kg.
After the specified period ends on March 23, premium rice prices are expected to revert to the standard HET as outlined in National Food Agency Regulation No 7/2023. This regulation establishes a tiered HET system based on geographic zones, with prices set at IDR 13,900 per kg for premium rice in Zone 1, which includes Java and several other regions, and varying prices for other zones, reflecting the diverse economic and agricultural landscapes across Indonesia.