Indonesia to launch B50 biodiesel in July to end diesel imports

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto said on Wednesday Indonesia will launch B50 biodiesel in July as part of efforts to achieve energy self-sufficiency and end diesel imports.

Speaking at the 17th National Farmers and Fishermen Week (PENAS KTNA XVII) in Gorontalo on Wednesday, attended by tens of thousands of farmers and fishers from 38 provinces, Prabowo said the higher biodiesel blend would significantly reduce Indonesia's reliance on imported fuel.

"We will move toward fuel self-sufficiency and energy self-sufficiency. In July, in a few days, we will launch B50. Diesel fuel will contain a 50 percent palm oil blend. With this, we will no longer import diesel from abroad," Prabowo said.

The Southeast Asian nation, the world's largest palm oil producer, has steadily increased its mandatory biodiesel blend to curb fuel imports, strengthen energy security, and support domestic palm oil consumption.

Prabowo said Indonesia could achieve full energy self-sufficiency within three to four years through expanded biofuel use and other domestic energy initiatives.

"I estimate that in three years, or at most four years, we will achieve energy self-sufficiency. We do not want to import anything for our fuel or energy needs," he said.

He said energy security was crucial for Indonesia amid volatility affecting oil-producing regions and major shipping routes, citing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.

Separately, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia said the government was optimistic the B50 program would be implemented on July 1, 2026, following successful trials.

"God willing, we are very optimistic that the launch of B50 will take place on July 1. This will reduce or even eliminate diesel imports, particularly C48 diesel imports," Bahlil said in Jakarta on June 18.

Bahlil said B50 had been tested on heavy equipment, ships, trains, mining machinery, excavators, and agricultural equipment, with trials showing positive results.

The government estimates that implementing B50 could save up to Rp157.28 trillion in foreign exchange this year.

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Translator: Genta Tenri Mawangi, Martha Herlinawati Simanjunta

Editor: Primayanti

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