Indonesia, with its rich fertile soils, stands as a key global producer of diverse agricultural tropical products.
Despite a decline in its GDP contribution over the past five decades, agriculture remains a primary income source for Indonesian households.
In 2012, it employed approximately 49 million individuals, constituting 41% of the total labor force. While the absolute agricultural workforce continues to grow, its relative share has decreased from 55% in the 1980s to 41% today.
The sector is projected to grow, albeit slower than industry and services. It comprises large plantations (state-owned and private) and smallholder production. Large plantations focus on export commodities like palm oil and rubber, while smallholders produce rice, soybeans, corn, fruits, and vegetables.
The government prioritizes self-sufficiency, especially in rice, the staple food with the highest per capita consumption globally. Despite efforts, Indonesia relies on rice imports from Vietnam and Thailand. Self-sufficiency programs also target soybeans, corn, and sugar. Doubts persist about their effectiveness, despite ongoing government initiatives since 2007 to revitalize smallholder farming for increased production.
source : https://www.indonesia-investments.com/culture/economy/general-economic-outline/agriculture/item378