Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Agriculture has announced the arrival of 1,573 dairy cows from Australia, aimed at strengthening domestic milk production and enhancing the productivity of local farmers.Director General of Livestock and Animal Health Agung Suganda confirmed on Sunday that 1,088 cows arrived via Tanjung Tembaga Port in Probolinggo, East Java, on Saturday, while 485 arrived earlier on Friday through Tanjung Wangi Port in Banyuwangi.
He stated that the import supports the government’s National Milk and Beef Production Acceleration (P2SDN) program, which targets increasing the dairy cow population by one million by 2029.
"This is part of our broader strategy to ensure food security and support the Free Nutritious Meals program," he said, noting that domestic milk production currently meets only 21 percent of the national demand, which stands at 4.6 million tons annually.
The imported cows are expected to enhance local farmers’ capacity and accelerate efforts toward milk self-sufficiency.
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Director of Animal Health Imron Suandy added that the cows were imported under strict animal health protocols, beginning prior to shipment and continuing upon arrival in Indonesia.
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All animals were certified healthy and free from transmissible diseases, with complete international documentation.
"This reflects our commitment to animal health and the safety of animal-based food," he said.
The government has also lifted import quotas on all types of live cattle—including beef, feeder, and dairy cattle—as a strategic move to safeguard beef and milk supply and reinforce national food security.
