Minister of Agriculture Responds to Farmers’ Complaints about Expensive Fertilizer Prices
In a recent visit to Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB), Minister of Agriculture (Mentan) Amran Sulaiman addressed the concerns raised by local farmers regarding the exorbitant price of fertilizer reaching Rp 300,000 per quintal or Rp 150,000 per sack. This alarming issue has caught the attention of the agricultural community and is now under scrutiny.
Direct Witness Account from ‘Remaja Tani’ Group Member
During the Minister’s visit to the region on Monday, January 6, 2025, a member of the ‘Remaja Tani’ farmers’ group directly approached Deputy Minister of Agriculture (Wamentan) Sudaryono with the grievance. The farmer highlighted the stark reality of having to purchase subsidized fertilizer at such inflated prices, creating a significant financial burden for the farming community.
The farmer specified that they had to redeem the subsidized fertilizer at a staggering rate of Rp 300,000 per quintal or Rp 150,000 per sack. This transaction took place at UD Elvin’s kiosk, responsible for providing subsidized fertilizer in Desa Pengembur, Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, NTB.
Clarification from Kiosk Manager Natasya
In response to these allegations, Natasya, the manager of UD Elvin, stepped forward to clarify the situation. She refuted the claims made by the ‘Remaja Tani’ member, emphasizing that the redemption of subsidized fertilizer at Rp 300,000 per quintal was a result of an agreement between the farmers and the group leader. Furthermore, the payment was facilitated through credit arrangements.
Natasya shed light on the customary practice of settling the subsidized fertilizer payments post-harvest, known as ‘yarnen.’ This delayed payment method aims to ease the financial strain on farmers, allowing them to repay their debts once their crops are harvested.
Distributor’s Accountability
Looking at the broader picture, Ferdinan, Deputy Director of CV Fortuna, affirmed that their company, as a distributor of subsidized fertilizer in Lombok Tengah, had summoned all affiliated kiosks to address the pricing discrepancies. CV Fortuna stands ready to issue stern warnings to any kiosks selling fertilizer above the stipulated HET, with the possibility of terminating partnerships with non-compliant outlets.
As the farming community grapples with the repercussions of soaring fertilizer prices, Minister Amran Sulaiman’s promise to investigate and take action against distributors exploiting farmers’ livelihoods offers a glimmer of hope. It is imperative for all stakeholders to work together to ensure fair pricing practices and support the backbone of our agricultural sector—the hardworking farmers.
