RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has assured that food prices remain relatively stable despite recent increases in non-subsidized fuel. Officials emphasized that the situation will not have a significant impact as long as subsidized fuel prices are maintained.

“As long as the price of subsidized fuel is not raised, transportation costs will not increase. If transportation costs remain stable, food prices will also stay steady,” said I Gusti Ketut Astawa, Deputy I for Food Availability and Stability, during a media briefing in Jakarta on Monday, April 20, 2026.

He explained that the rise in non-subsidized fuel prices does not directly affect food distribution, since the main distribution sector relies on subsidized fuel. Ketut credited the government’s policy of keeping subsidized fuel prices unchanged as a key factor in maintaining food price stability. “We should be grateful for the president’s policy of not increasing subsidized fuel prices,” he added.

Ketut noted that stable food prices are crucial for preserving public purchasing power, particularly amid global economic uncertainty. He also acknowledged government concerns over fluctuating global oil prices due to conflict in the Middle East, but said the impact on domestic food prices remains manageable.

Earlier, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia explained the reasons behind the increase in non-subsidized fuel prices for Pertamax Turbo, Dexlite, and Pertamina Dex. He said the adjustment reflects global market prices, while the government continues to regulate subsidized fuels such as Pertalite and Solar.

“The government regulates subsidized fuels. Meanwhile, non-subsidized fuels, according to the 2022 Ministerial Regulation of Energy and Mineral Resources, follow market prices,” Bahlil said during a retreat for Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) Speakers at the Magelang Military Academy on Saturday, April 18, 2026. (Misni Parjiati/Lasti Martina)