Indonesia strengthens fertilizer industry via Algeria partnership

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Algeria to improve fertilizer quality and accessibility for farmers as part of efforts to strengthen food security through enhanced agricultural productivity.

The MoU was signed by the leaders of state-run fertilizer producer PT Pupuk Indonesia and Algeria’s national phosphate mining company Somiphos in Algiers on Tuesday (Jan. 20), according to a statement received in Jakarta on Wednesday.

“This Algeria-backed phosphate cooperation represents a concrete step toward strengthening the upstream segment of the national fertilizer industry to make fertilizers more affordable for Indonesians,” said Sudaryono, Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, who witnessed the signing.

He noted that the MoU provides a foundation for Indonesia to secure access to Algeria’s phosphate as a key raw material for the national fertilizer industry. Under the new cooperation scheme, the two countries have also opened investment opportunities in phosphate mining and processing.

“By broadening access to raw material sources and fostering a mutually beneficial strategic partnership, we not only support the sustainability of the national fertilizer industry but also carry out President Prabowo’s directive to protect farmers as the backbone of Indonesia’s food security,” Sudaryono said.

The MoU, signed in the presence of Algeria’s Energy and Mining Minister Mohamed Arkab, will remain in effect for 18 months and includes joint preliminary feasibility studies on technical and economic aspects, as well as data exchanges.

Meanwhile, Pupuk Indonesia President Director Rahmad Pribadi reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the government’s food security drive by securing access to materials needed for fertilizer production.

“Pupuk Indonesia will continue to support the government by exploring cooperation opportunities with partners and countries. This step is crucial to ensure the availability of raw materials, which is essential for providing affordable fertilizers to Indonesian farmers,” he said.

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