Indonesia Launches Investigation into Alleged Illegal Rice Imports

Customs to Probe Import Route and Authorization

The Indonesian government has initiated an investigation into a shipment of 250 tons of rice that arrived in Sabang, Aceh, amid allegations that it was imported without proper authorization. The rice is suspected to have originated from Thailand and Vietnam. Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, deputy to Finance Minister Sri Mulyani, announced that the Customs office will conduct a thorough examination to determine the legitimacy of the import.

Key Focus Areas of the Investigation

1. Import Route Verification: Authorities will investigate through which channels the rice was imported and whether all necessary regulations were followed.
2. Authorization Checks: Officials will verify if the shipment had the required permits and approvals from relevant authorities.
3. Responsibility Identification: The investigation aims to identify individuals or entities responsible for any potential violations of import regulations.

Government's Stance on Illegal Imports

Purbaya emphasized that if the import is found to be illegal, a comprehensive investigation will be conducted, including examining the involvement of any government officials or entities that may have facilitated the shipment. The government has assured that appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible.