Indonesia is betting on sorghum to boost food security

Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is developing gluten-free noodles made from sorghum. According to Antara News, this move aims to reduce the country’s dependence on wheat imports and strengthen food security.

BRIN representative Hens Saputra notes that the crop is ideal for Indonesia. It is resilient to extreme weather and rich in fiber. However, he notes that it is impossible to grow wheat efficiently in the country.

The country’s Ministry of Agriculture is working to expand cultivation. In November 2025, a pilot plantation yielded 3 tons of wet and 1.5 tons of dry wheat. By 2026, according to the ministry’s plans, 5,000 hectares will be devoted to this crop.

BRIN, in collaboration with private companies, is providing training and technology transfer for sorghum processing to attract local residents and small businesses.

The long-term goal is to develop an integrated sorghum industry. It could cover:

• Food production;
• Livestock feed;
• Ethanol and biomass production.

According to the agency, the project will open up new opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses and attract foreign partners.

Tags: Indonesia, sorghum