Prabowo Orders Special Fuel Price for Medium Fishing Vessels

RRI.CO.ID, Bogor - President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the government to introduce a special fuel price for fishing businesses operating vessels between 30 and 200 gross tons (GT). Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, announced the policy after attending a limited meeting chaired by President Prabowo at his Hambalang residence in Bogor Regency on Monday, July 13, 2026.

In a written statement, the Minister explained that non-subsidized diesel fuel prices had previously risen to Rp21,300 per liter, while fishermen operating vessels below 30 GT already receive fuel at Rp6,800 per liter. The President therefore directed the government to provide a special fuel price for operators of larger fishing vessels.

He said, “These fishing businesses need to receive a special price, it was agreed that the fuel price would be set at Rp15,000 per liter.” He added that the average domestic production cost of non-subsidized diesel fuel is estimated at Rp18,600 per liter.

The difference of approximately Rp3,600 per liter will be financed by the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) instead of the State Budget. Minister Airlangga said the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will issue regulations governing the support scheme and its financing mechanism.

The Minister said the use of BPDP funds is possible because the agency currently has sufficient financial resources to support the program. The special fuel price policy will cover a quota of 400,000 tons for the next six months.

Meanwhile, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, said the policy is intended to provide greater certainty for businesses in the fisheries sector. He explained that the Rp15,000 per liter price is expected to reduce operational costs for fishing vessels measuring 30 GT and above.

He confirmed that the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will immediately follow up on the President’s directive by issuing the necessary ministerial decree. He also emphasized that the price support will be financed entirely through non-State Budget funds.

The minister added that the government will ensure the policy is implemented accurately and reaches its intended beneficiaries. Distribution points will be coordinated with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries to prevent misuse of the program and ensure the assistance benefits eligible fishing businesses.