The government pledged on Thursday to immediately stop illegal potato imports that have put local farmers at risk.

Speaking after a meeting with representatives of local potato farmers at his office, Trade Minister Enggartiasto Lukita said the government only allowed imports of Atlantic potatoes, a variety used to make French fries and chips. Thus, imports of Granola potatoes, which are planted by most local farmers, are prohibited.

“Some importers have violated their permits by importing Granola potatoes; it is illegal. We already told the police to investigate,” said Enggartiasto.

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman, who was also present at the meeting, said the government would speed up efforts to help farmers boost productivity. The ministry, for example, will soon deploy over 1,000 agriculture experts to help potato farmers across the archipelago.

According to Central Statistics Agency (BPS) data, potato imports reached 18,674 tons during the first nine months of 2016, with a total import value of US$8.82 million.

Amran said potato prices were around Rp 5,000 (37 US cents) per kilogram last month but had bounced back to Rp 8,500 per kg this week. Low prices, he said, would put local farmers in danger, as the cost of production for potatoes currently stands at Rp 5,000 per kg. (hwa)

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