Agriculture minister says free meal program boosts village economy

hartono · Apr 7, 2026

Minister of Agriculture and Head of the National Food Agency Andi Amran Sulaiman responds to journalists’ questions in Makassar, South Sulawesi, on Monday (April 6, 2026). /ANTARA/Harianto.

Makassar, South Sulawesi (ANTARA) -

Indonesia's Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman said on Monday the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program is driving village economies and energizing the food sector through sustained demand across supply chains.

Speaking in Makassar, South Sulawesi, Amran said the program stimulates economic activity by increasing demand for horticultural products such as vegetables and livestock products including chicken and eggs.

He said the program should not be viewed in isolation, as it creates a multiplier effect that activates upstream and downstream sectors, benefiting farmers, breeders, traders, and small businesses across rural areas.

“Do not see MBG as a standalone program. It drives village economies, from horticulture and vegetable farming to chicken and egg producers, moving everything from upstream to downstream,” he said.

According to Amran, horticulture farmers are experiencing direct gains from rising demand, leading to stronger production and improved economic value for vegetable commodities.

He added that the livestock sector has also seen increased activity, particularly among poultry and egg producers, who are benefiting from higher and more consistent market demand.

Amran noted that around 3.8 million livestock farmers, including those raising poultry, cattle, and goats, are being positively impacted by the program.

Beyond production, he said distribution and food trade sectors are also expanding, creating an interconnected economic ecosystem that strengthens local economic resilience.

The program’s economic circulation could reach hundreds of trillions of rupiah, much of which is expected to flow within rural areas, supporting grassroots economic growth.

Amran said the MBG program is a key strategy to reinforce village economies while supporting sustainable national food security.

He expressed optimism that the initiative will continue delivering broad benefits by promoting inclusive, competitive, and village-based economic growth in Indonesia.