Banjarmasin, S Kalimantan (AntaranewsKalsel) - The state-owned logistics firm Bulog together with the provincial government of South Kalimantan will counduct rice market operation to anticipate higher price during the Christmas and year-end celebration.
Head of Bulog for South Kalimantan Area Dedy Supriady here on Tuesday said 15 thousands tons of rice have been prepared for the market operation to stabilize rice price, especially during the holiday season. Beside, a possibility of supply disturbance caused by bad weather as it has been happening in the last few weeks.
"The market operation to be conducted in all districts and cities in the province," he said.
In the early stages, Bulog will supply 300 tons of rice originating from government rice stocks. The rice will be distributed to Banjarmasin, Banjarbaru, and Banjar. While for Tapin, South Hulu Sungai, Central Hulu Sungai, North Hulu Sungai ,and Tabalong, 200 ton of rice is prepared.
Based on Bulog data, rice stock in the province is safe up to seven months ahead, either for Rastra (rice for social assistance), natural disaster, and market operation.
"We did not specify the amount, but we have prepared 5 thousand tons for all of South Kalimantan," he said.
This market operation rice, he added, is a medium quality rice set with a HET (limit price) set by the governor of Rp8.100 or Rp1.850 cheaper then the market price.
Head of South Kalimantan Trade Agency Birhasani said, although there has been no rice scarcity resulting in price spikes, this operation needs to be done.
