BATU, EAST JAVA – Agriculture Minister Syahrul Yasin Limpo called on farmers, who were members of the Outstanding Farmers and Fishermen Association (KTNA), to assist in efforts to control the inflation rate.
At the meeting with the Outstanding Farmers and Fishermen Association Group here on Friday, he noted that one of the measures that farmers could apply to control inflation was to produce some important commodities.
“Inflation occurs in the prices of chili, onions, tomatoes, and others. Let us produce them,” he stated.
Limpo explained that with the production of important commodities that contribute significantly to inflation, the government would later on map areas to identify those having surplus stock and those experiencing a shortage.
According to the minister, with the mapping, the distribution process of these important commodities could be conducted seamlessly. In addition, the needs of each region would be met, which in turn would assist them in inflation control.
“Mapping for each province (helps in identifying) each region that lacks. That must be considered, (to know the best way) to support the areas that are lacking. For areas with a surplus, production must be improved,” he remarked.
By optimizing the production of key commodities and distribution according to the needs of each region, the increase in commodity prices is expected to be suppressed and ultimately be able to control inflation, Minister Limpo explained.
“Of course, in the end, we talk about price. However, I think if there is sufficient stock, we can (work with) each other, so that the prices are more stable,” Limpo remarked.
According to data from Statistics Indonesia, red chili, cayenne pepper, and shallots were commodities that triggered a 0.21-percent deflation in August 2022.
Those commodities were included in the food, beverage, and tobacco group that contributed 0.48 percent to deflation in the month. Shallots contributed 0.15 percent to deflation; cayenne, 0.12 percent; and red chili, 0.07 percent.