Indonesia to Export Mocaf to Boost Local Cassava Farmers

Indonesia plans to begin exporting modified cassava flour, known as mocaf, starting next week. Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman announced the move on Wednesday, Oct. 28, stating that the government aims to expand markets and capitalize on rising cassava prices to benefit domestic farmers.

The shift toward exports follows a directive from President Prabowo Subianto to halt cassava imports to protect local producers. Minister Amran noted that the government is working to transition the country from being a major importer to an exporter in a short timeframe.

Impact on Local Farmer Pricing

The import ban was implemented after reports indicated that farm-gate prices for cassava had dropped to Rp700 per kilogram. Following the policy, Amran reported that prices have risen to approximately Rp3,000 (around US$0.18) per kilogram, based on discussions held with farmers in Lampung on Oct. 25.

“In short, farmers are making a profit. When farmers profit, they can continue producing,” the minister said.

Cassava Downstreaming Aims to Strengthen Export Markets

Amran emphasized that exporting mocaf is part of a broader strategy to accelerate “cassava downstreaming,” which converts raw materials into higher-value and more competitive products. He stated that these initiatives are intended to strengthen the connections between export markets, processing industries, and farmers.

The minister added that reaching these goals will require focusing on production capacity, product quality standards, supply chain sustainability, and the absorption of output from farmers. He expressed confidence that growing the processing industry would increase demand for local cassava, creating jobs and business opportunities in producing regions while boosting overall productivity.

The government believes that stopping imports serves as an opportunity to increase the competitiveness of Indonesian cassava products.

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