Jakarta. Indonesia has introduced import restrictions for several agricultural commodities such as feed wheat and mung beans, among others.

The restrictions also affect peanuts, soybean meal, pears, as well as rice meant for livestock.

Importers now must secure the Trade Ministry's approval. They must also earn technical recommendations from the Agriculture Ministry.

"We wish to improve import policies. We want to maintain a balance between domestic supply and demand, while also protecting prices for domestic producers. We also hope to strengthen national food security," Budi said, as reported by the state news agency Antara on Thursday. 

Andri Gilang Nugraha, a senior official at the Trade Ministry, went on to say that the move could reduce Indonesia's dependence on imports.

"Take a look at mung beans and peanuts. Our farmers have lost interest in growing these crops because imported products were able to enter our market without duration or volume restrictions," Gilang said.

The permit for feed rice importers must also come with a commodity balance sheet. Pear importers have to submit a proof of control over their cold storage and other related documents. Indonesia also requires importers of both products to submit a surveyor's report.

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