Can Indonesia Achieve Sustainable Rice Self-Sufficiency? A Comparative Analysis of Rice Production Strategies in Southeast Asia

Abstract

Rice self-sufficiency remains a critical challenge for Indonesia despite multiple government initiatives spanning decades. This study examines Indonesia's rice production strategies through a comparative lens with neighboring Southeast Asian countries, particularly Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Utilizing a qualitative descriptive approach combined with secondary data analysis from FAO, World Bank, and national agricultural ministries, this research investigates the feasibility and sustainability of Indonesia's rice self-sufficiency goals. The findings reveal that while Indonesia has achieved temporary self-sufficiency periods (notably in 1984 and 2008-2010), sustained success remains elusive due to structural challenges including land conversion, climate variability, inadequate irrigation infrastructure, and post-harvest losses averaging 15-20%. Comparative analysis demonstrates that Vietnam and Thailand have maintained consistent export capabilities through superior agricultural technology adoption, efficient supply chain management, and supportive government policies. The study identifies critical gaps in Indonesia's approach: fragmented land ownership averaging 0.3 hectares per farmer, low mechanization rates (35% compared to Thailand's 78%), and insufficient investment in agricultural research and development. Policy recommendations include accelerating land consolidation programs, enhancing precision agriculture adoption, strengthening farmer cooperatives, and implementing comprehensive climate-adaptive strategies. This research contributes to understanding the complex dynamics of rice self-sufficiency in tropical archipelagic nations and provides evidence-based policy directions for sustainable food security.

Keywords: Rice self-sufficiency; Agricultural policy; Food security; Southeast Asia; Comparative agriculture; Sustainable farming