Indonesia and Japan have long shared a robust partnership across various sectors. Recently, both nations have taken significant steps to deepen their collaboration in agriculture, aiming to bolster food security, enhance technological exchange, and promote sustainable farming practices. This article delves into the facets of this burgeoning Indonesia-Japan agricultural cooperation and its implications for both countries.​

Enhancing Trade Relations Through Agricultural Exchange

In April 2025, Indonesian Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, met with Japan's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, Taku Eto, in Jakarta to discuss potential collaborations in the agricultural sector. A key point of discussion was the mutual exchange of agricultural commodities. Indonesia proposed increasing its export of crude palm oil (CPO) to Japan, while Japan expressed interest in exporting its surplus fresh milk to Indonesia. Both parties agreed to further technical discussions to finalize the volumes and ensure that imported milk meets Indonesia's halal certification requirements.

Investing in Agricultural Technology and Climate Resilience

Beyond trade, Indonesia has invited Japan to invest in its agricultural sector, particularly in areas that address climate change challenges. The focus is on adopting advanced technologies to mitigate climate risks, improve crop yields, and ensure sustainable farming. This includes the development of new rice fields utilizing existing swamp lands with appropriate irrigation systems, aiming to expand rice cultivation without deforestation. Such initiatives align with Indonesia's broader goals of achieving food security and modernizing its agricultural practices. ​

Collaborative Programs and Human Resource Development

Human resource development is a cornerstone of the Indonesia-Japan agricultural partnership. Programs like the Indonesian Young Farmer Leader (IYFAL) training in Japan aim to equip Indonesian farmers with advanced skills and knowledge. Additionally, collaborations between Indonesian and Japanese universities, such as the MoU between Bogor Agricultural University (IPB) and Shizuoka Professional University of Agriculture (SPUA), facilitate research and educational exchanges. These initiatives are designed to foster innovation, improve agricultural productivity, and prepare a skilled workforce to meet future challenges in the sector.

The evolving Indonesia-Japan agricultural cooperation signifies a mutual commitment to addressing food security, embracing sustainable practices, and leveraging technological advancements. Through strategic trade agreements, investment in climate-resilient technologies, and robust human resource development programs, both nations are poised to reap the benefits of this strengthened partnership, contributing to the prosperity and well-being of their populations.