Jakarta: Arief Prasetyo Adi, the head of the National Food Agency (Bapanas), unequivocally disclosed the reason behind the recent surge in sugar prices, exceeding Rp16, 000 per kilogram. He attributed the escalation to the insufficient realization of sugar imports by importers, falling below the import permit quota issued by the government, reported Tempo.
“The import task should have been executed appropriately by those holding the import permit. Had they done so diligently, the import realization would have surpassed 26 percent, and presently, we could have maintained ample stocks at reasonable prices,” Arief remarked during an encounter at the House of Representatives Complex on Wednesday, November 8.
Expanding on the matter, Arief stated that the government had previously issued import permits to both State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) and private companies. However, it transpired that these entities did not adhere to the specified timeline.
“With prices now elevated, the public is turning to the Food Agency for answers. However, the pertinent question should be, ‘Why did you not import?’ given that they already possess the necessary permit,” he asserted.
As per media report, when asked about potential sanctions for importers failing to actualize sugar imports, Arief indicated that if the import realization did not improve, the government would conduct an evaluation and subsequently cease issuing import permits to the implicated companies.
