Jakarta. Indonesia has decided to increase its rice reserves, from 3 million tons to 4 million tons in 2026, to prepare for a projected surge in production and rising national food demand.

The decision was announced on Monday by Chief Food Affairs Ministry Zulkifli Hasan following a special meeting on government food reserve policy.

“We decided to raise the government rice reserve from 3 million tons to 4 million tons. This will make it easier to manage supply and price stabilization programs, food assistance and other needs,” Zulkifli said

The meeting was attended by Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman, Trade Minister Budi Santoso, National Food Agency (BGN) head Dadan Hindayana, state logistics agency Bulog chief executive Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani, and Deputy Head of the State-Owned Enterprises Ministry Aminuddin Ma’ruf.

Zulkifli said the increase was driven in part by expectations of a stronger and earlier rice harvest next year. Indonesia’s main harvest season typically runs from March to May, but in 2026 it could begin as early as February.

“If we are not prepared, prices could fall sharply,” he said, adding that larger reserves would allow the government to absorb excess supply and protect farmers’ incomes.

The policy also reflects rising food demand linked to the expansion of Indonesia’s flagship free nutritious meals program. According to the National Food Agency, the number of beneficiaries is expected to reach about 55 million people by January 2026, increasing to around 80 million by April.

Beyond rice, the government is also preparing for higher demand for other food commodities, including eggs, fish, chicken and bananas, Zulkifli said.

“All of this must be prepared carefully,” he added.

Indonesia relies on government-managed reserves, largely handled by state logistics agency Bulog, to stabilize food prices, ensure availability during emergencies and support social assistance programs. The planned increase signals a more proactive approach as the country balances farm output growth with expanding social and nutrition initiatives.