October 24, 2003

Corn Imports in Indonesia May Reach 5 Million Tons by Year 2010

It was reported on October 23 that Indonesia has imported corn every year mainly to supply animal feed factories in the country.

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister, Bungaran Saragih, said imports could reach 5 million tons in 2010 to meet growing demand from animal feed factories.

Saragih expressed concerns that corn consumers prefer to import corn rather than seeking to grow the crop in the country in cooperation with farmers.

He said maize grows well in the country and the market is potential with consumption continuing to increase from year to year.

Indonesia imports corn from China, India, Chile and Australia.