Prisma Ardianto, Jakarta – Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Tuesday to express appreciation for the start of Indonesia's urea fertilizer exports to Australia, according to a senior presidential aide.

In the initial phase, Indonesia has agreed to supply 250,000 tons of urea fertilizer to help meet Australia's agricultural needs.

"Prime Minister Albanese conveyed his appreciation for the President's approval of Indonesia's urea fertilizer exports to Australia totaling 250,000 tons in the first stage," Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya said in a statement.

The shipment to Australia is part of Indonesia's broader strategy to expand its presence in international fertilizer markets.

The government said total export commitments for urea have now reached around 1 million tons.

Beyond Australia, Indonesia is preparing additional shipments to several other countries.

"Going forward, part of Indonesia's urea production will also be exported to India, the Philippines, Thailand, and Brazil," Teddy said.

The government maintained that the export policy is being implemented in a measured manner, with priority still placed on ensuring sufficient fertilizer supplies for domestic farmers.

According to Agriculture Ministry data, Indonesia's current urea production capacity exceeds domestic demand. National urea output stands at 7.8 million tons, while domestic demand is estimated at around 6.3 million tons.

With that production surplus, Indonesia has room to expand into global markets without disrupting national food security, Teddy said.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/business/albanese-praises-indonesia-as-urea-exports-begi