TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The high beef prices at the consumer level has prompted the government to evaluate the prices at the farmers' level. Agriculture Minister Suswono said the government is discussing the ideal price for live cattle by the kilogram.
"The existing Rp 36,000 per kilogram of live weight is too high, I think. We're calculating to make it more affordable for consumers. We've conducted discussions with the scholars go to village [SMD] program," said Suswono during a meeting with the House of Representatives' (DPR) Commission IV at the DPR building in Jakarta on Monday, June 3.
Suswono pointed out that in East Nusa Tenggara, farmers received Rp 24,000 per kilogram of live cattle. At this rate, Suswono said the farmers already gained profit. "If it falls to Rp 16,000 per kilogram, farmers may complain," said the minister.
BERNADETTE CHRISTINA