Indonesian rice prices near record amid El Nino risks
Indonesian retail rice prices remain near record highs due to distribution bottlenecks and dry weather. Analysts warn that El Nino risks could disrupt the 2027 harvest and keep prices elevated.
Retail rice prices in Indonesia climbed to a record 15,769 rupiah ($0.88) per kilogram in September, driven by distribution bottlenecks and delayed rains. The cost surge surpasses previous peaks in the world's fourth-largest producer, fueling public dissatisfaction over persistent food inflation. Elevated prices are expected to persist into early 2027, threatening supplies for the country's 290 million people.
