Key Points of the Food Law Revision

Commission IV of the House of Representatives is currently discussing the revision of Law No. 18 of 2012 on Food as amended by  Regulation of the Government in Lieu of Law No. 2 of 2022 on Job Creation ( collectively referred to as “Law 18/2012”). The third amendment to Law 18/2012 is planned to regulate the comprehensive digitization of food management.

“The adaptation of digitalization technology in upstream and downstream food management will be the substance of the discussion,” said Daniel Johan, a member of Commission IV of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia (“DPR RI”), Daniel Johan to Hukumonline.

Digitalization is necessary to clarify the origin of food sources, prevent damage that causes contamination, and prevent food poisoning. At the same time, it will also regulate food stocks through dynamic food reserves.

Other points of change include strengthening the institutional framework of the Logistics Agency (“Bulog”), import restrictions, and national food governance. Daniel emphasized that these substantive changes aim to ensure that food is managed and controlled by the state. The amendment to Law 18/2012 is targeted for completion by 2025.

“The food law needs to strengthen the state's sovereignty in regulating domestic governance and minimize the influence of foreign intervention in food matters,” said Daniel.