Bandung, IndonesiaSentinel.com — Indonesia is set to import 100,000 dairy cows from Brazil as part of a strategic partnership aimed at boosting the country’s milk production and advancing self-sufficiency in the dairy sector. The deal, which was announced on Friday, September 13, 2024, is the result of a mutual agreement between Indonesian company PT Asiabeef Biofarma Indonesia (Asiabeef) and Brazil’s Agropecuaria 31 (31 Group), according to a statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture.
The agreement was initiated by Indonesia’s Minister of Agriculture, Amran Sulaiman, during a bilateral meeting with his Brazilian counterpart, Minister Carlos Favaro, in Chapada dos Guimarães, Brazil. The partnership is valued at an estimated IDR 4.5 trillion (roughly USD $290 million) and will see the development of tropical dairy cattle in Indonesia, which is expected to significantly increase the country’s milk production capacity.
Strengthening Dairy Production
The import of these dairy cows forms part of Indonesia’s broader strategy to achieve self-sufficiency in meat and dairy production. Minister Sulaiman emphasized the importance of this cooperation in reducing Indonesia’s reliance on imported dairy products and ensuring the country’s food security.
“With this collaboration, we aim to meet the country’s protein needs through domestic production,” said Sulaiman. “Indonesia must develop its livestock sector on a large scale to reduce dependency on imports.”
The introduction of tropical dairy cows from Brazil is seen as a viable solution to address Indonesia’s growing demand for milk and dairy products. Brazil’s tropical cattle are specifically adapted to warmer climates, making them well-suited for Indonesia’s agricultural environment.
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Why Brazil?
Brazil’s role in the global livestock market has grown substantially in recent years, with the country becoming one of the top exporters of cattle, particularly for tropical regions. Brazil’s strong cattle industry, coupled with its favorable climate for livestock, positions it as a critical supplier for nations seeking to increase their dairy and beef production.
The deal is expected to enhance Indonesia’s livestock industry, and Brazilian dairy cows will contribute to the nation’s goal of becoming more self-reliant in terms of protein production, including both meat and dairy products.
A Step Toward Self-Sufficiency
Indonesia has long been reliant on imports to meet its dairy needs, sourcing milk and dairy products from major exporters like New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. However, with the introduction of Brazilian dairy cows, the country hopes to strengthen its domestic production and reduce its reliance on foreign dairy imports.
The partnership with Brazil marks a significant step in Indonesia’s efforts to bolster its agricultural sector, especially in the context of meeting the protein demands of its growing population. It is also a key move in the government’s long-term plan to achieve food self-sufficiency across several agricultural sectors, including beef and dairy.
(Raidi/Agung)
