Jakarta. Indonesia is exploring urea exports to India after recording a domestic surplus of 1.5 million tons, even as the government stresses that local supply will remain the top priority.

Deputy Agriculture Minister Sudaryono said the plan was discussed during a meeting with Indian Ambassador Manoj Kumar Bharti on Thursday, as both countries seek to deepen agricultural cooperation.

“Indonesia will prioritize domestic fertilizer needs. After our calculations, there is a surplus of around 1.5 million tons that can be exported,” Sudaryono told reporters at the Agriculture Ministry in Jakarta.

The export plan comes amid global supply chain disruptions triggered by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane for energy and commodities. The disruption has pushed international urea prices sharply higher, with benchmark prices rising from around $600–$700 per ton to nearly $900 per ton, creating a favorable window for exporters.

Sudaryono added that Indonesia’s total urea production capacity stands at 14.5 million tons annually, while domestic demand remains below that level, allowing room for exports without jeopardizing local supply.

India has emerged as a potential buyer, particularly to meet demand during its planting season from July to September. The period coincides with a relatively lower planting cycle in Indonesia, creating an opportunity to export without disrupting domestic supply.

“The government is ready to export urea to India. The volume and technical arrangements will be discussed further between state-owned fertilizer companies from both countries,” he said.

The two countries have long exchanged commodities, including key raw materials for fertilizer production such as phosphate.

Bharti welcomed the prospect of cooperation, saying India is prepared to import urea from Indonesia under a government-to-government framework, while respecting Indonesia’s domestic priorities.

“We understand that exports will only take place after Indonesia’s domestic needs are fulfilled. If there is a surplus, we would be very happy to buy from Indonesia,” he said.

He added that differences in planting cycles between the two countries offer a mutually beneficial opportunity to strengthen fertilizer trade.

Amid global supply chain disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions, Sudaryono sought to reassure farmers that Indonesia’s fertilizer supply remains secure.

“I want to assure all Indonesian farmers that our fertilizer condition is safe and unaffected by the war. In fact, we have a surplus that can be utilized for exports,” he said.

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