The Indonesian Agriculture Ministry is currently awaiting the results from the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) concerning the safety of Shine Muscat grapes. This evaluation is crucial as it may lead to a ban on the distribution of the fruit if harmful substances are detected. "We are waiting for the BPOM's test results. If any violations or harmful substances are found, we will evaluate and potentially prohibit their distribution," Vice Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono stated during a briefing at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta.
The potential prohibition could extend to the importation of Shine Muscat grapes, should the safety concerns be validated. This comes against a backdrop where the majority of grapes in Indonesia are imported due to the limited domestic production. The government, under President Prabowo Subianto's directive, aims to reduce dependency on imported fruits by enhancing local fruit production capabilities. The Agriculture Ministry plans to focus on research and development efforts to improve seed quality and agricultural technology, facilitating the growth of grapes and other fruits within the Indonesian climate and soil conditions.
Source: Tempo