The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported a 5.32% increase in agricultural exports in January 2024 compared to the previous month, and a 0.11% increase compared to the previous year. This growth occurred amid declines in other non-oil and gas sectors, making agriculture the only sector showing both monthly and yearly growth. According to Amalia Widyasanti, Acting Head of BPS, this export increase in the agricultural sector was primarily due to increases in exports of products such as palm oil and bird's nests. Meanwhile, other sectors experienced declines, with the manufacturing sector decreasing by 4.13% and the mining sector by 23.93% compared to the previous month.
Non-oil and gas exports in January 2024 reached USD 19.13 billion, with agriculture contributing significantly at USD 374 million. Amalia highlighted palm oil as one of the leading export commodities, contributing approximately 33.72% to the total exports. Kuntoro Boga Andri, Head of the Ministry of Agriculture's Public Relations and Information Bureau, emphasized the strategic importance of the agricultural sector in contributing positively to exports and the national economy. He stated that agriculture remains a cornerstone of the nation's economic strength, with the government continually striving to increase production and enhance the value-added agriculture sector. Currently, the Ministry of Agriculture is focusing on increasing rice and maize production as key strategic commodities, aiming for self-sufficiency and becoming a global food basket. Kuntoro reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to enhancing strategic agricultural commodities to meet domestic needs and boost exports.
