Indonesia Confident in Food and Drug Security Despite Middle East Conflict
- 04 Mar 2026 18:59 WIB
- Voice of Indonesia
RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Drug and Food Control Agency (BPOM) assured the public that the country’s food and drug security remains strong despite escalating conflict in the Middle East, which could affect global supply chains and prices.
BPOM Chief Taruna Ikrar said in Jakarta on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, that the conflict is expected to impact Indonesia, particularly on medicine prices, given the nation’s reliance on imports. However, he emphasized that Indonesia has prepared safeguards in recent years to ensure adequate supplies.
“We are fortunate that preparations were made years ago. Based on current calculations, major pharmaceutical companies still have sufficient stock. God willing, we will not face shortages of medicines or food,” Taruna stated, as quoted by Antara.
He noted that Indonesia is now self-sufficient in several key food products, including rice, which is no longer imported, and has expanded domestic production of various food items.
The assurance comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East. On February 28, U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in Iran killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, members of his family, senior military commanders, and civilians. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and U.S. bases across the region.
Iranian media later reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had closed the Strait of Hormuz to shipping, declaring the vital oil and gas route unsafe following the strikes. Strategically located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, the strait is the only maritime passage from the Gulf to open seas, making it one of the world’s most critical chokepoints.
Taruna stressed that food and drug resilience is a core component of national security. “Food and medicine are essential to national resilience. With adequate supplies and strong domestic production, Indonesia can withstand external shocks while maintaining stability,” he said. ***
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