RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Soybeans remain a strategic commodity in Indonesia, but domestic production continues to fall short of demand, leaving the country heavily dependent on imports. To protect the tofu and tempeh industries, the government is focusing on maintaining price stability.

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has set purchase reference prices (HAP) to ensure soybeans remain affordable for artisans. Tofu and tempeh are among the main sources of daily protein for Indonesians, making price control critical.

As of April 13, soybean prices were relatively stable across regions. In Jakarta, prices ranged from IDR 10,500 to IDR 11,000 per kilogram.

The average price in Java was IDR 10,555 per kg, while Sumatra recorded higher and more volatile prices at IDR 11,450 per kg. Other averages included Sulawesi at IDR 11,113 per kg, Kalimantan at IDR 10,908 per kg, and Bali–Nusa Tenggara at IDR 10,550 per kg.

Government regulations cap local soybean prices at IDR 11,400 per kg for artisan-level production and at IDR 12,000 per kg for imported soybeans.

Deputy for Food Availability and Stabilization at Bapanas, I Gusti Ketut Astawa, said current prices remain within the government’s corridor. “The lowest soybean price in Jakarta is IDR 10,500 to IDR 11,000. Some reach IDR 12,000 in Aceh and North Sumatra, but overall prices remain consistent with our reference,” he said on April 15, 2026, as quoted on InfoPublik.

Astawa warned importers and distributors against exploiting excessive profits. Violations could result in sanctions, including license revocation and suspension of import permits.

Despite stable prices, Indonesia faces a significant production gap. National soybean output in 2026 is projected at only 277,500 tons, far below the annual consumption of 2.74 million tons. This shortfall underscores the tofu and tempeh industry’s reliance on imports and vulnerability to global price fluctuations.

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to balancing supply and prices to ensure artisans can continue production and the public retains access to affordable, nutritious food. ***