The Direktorat Jenderal Perkebunan of the Kementerian Pertanian (Ministry of Agriculture) is intensifying efforts to boost national sugar self-sufficiency through expanded cane-plantation programmes and better downstream linkages. On 4 November 2025, a first planting (“tanam perdana”) of a “bongkar-ratoon” sugar-cane cycle took place in Mlale Village, Jenar Subdistrict, Sragen Regency, Central Java. The initiative reflects the allocation of 100,453 ha of cane development in 2025—comprised of ratoon renewal and new land expansion—with plans to follow up with 99,547 ha in 2026. Concurrently, for Central Java alone, some 12,076 ha are earmarked, of which Sragen is to receive 2,547 ha for ratoon renewal and 41 ha for land expansion.
Beyond land-use targets, the programme highlights three strategic insights. First, the varietal trial on site used the BL (“Bulu Lawang”) variety—a high-yield type with potential 94.3 tons/hectare and sugar-extraction rate (rendemen) of 7.51%—to set ambitious productivity benchmarks. Second, coordination across the central ministry, provincial and district governments, state-owned enterprises, and farmers is emphasised as crucial for success—data collection, partner consolidation, and field-level mentoring are key. Third, strengthening downstream linkages (“hilirisasi”) is framed as critical to raise farmer incomes, develop the rural economy and integrate the sugar-cane industry value-chain. Overall, the programme reflects a holistic push not only to grow more cane, but to upgrade the entire sector so that national sugar self-sufficiency and improved farmer welfare move in tandem.
