Indonesia Cracks Down on Illegal Palm Oil Production

Indonesia is intensifying its efforts to combat illegal palm oil production after an investigation revealed that 3.7 million hectares of palm oil plantations are operating illegally. President Prabowo Subianto announced that the government will take strict measures against the illegal exploitation of natural resources.

According to the President, a total of 5 million hectares of palm oil plantations are under review for operating in protected areas or for non-compliance with regulations. The government has already confiscated 3.1 million hectares of illegal palm oil plantations with the help of the military.

Eddy Martono, head of the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI), disputed Prabowo's figures, but the President warned that the state could seize assets of companies that violate Indonesian laws. The government also plans to take action against illegal mining, with reports of 1,063 illegal activities.

Indonesia is the world's largest producer and exporter of palm oil.