By Jamie Martin
U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) has welcomed a new trade deal with APTINDO, Indonesia’s flour milling association, to double wheat imports from the United States. Signed on July 7, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) ensures a minimum of 1 million metric tons of U.S. wheat annually through 2030.
This commitment marks a major win for Kansas wheat producers, who supply much of the Hard Red Winter (HRW) wheat favored in the region. Kansas-grown HRW makes up over a quarter of U.S. wheat shipped to Indonesia over the past 10 years.
The agreement is expected to bring increased demand and strengthen wheat prices. It also highlights the importance of wheat research, quality grain production, and market development efforts, many of which are supported by Kansas wheat checkoff dollars.
Historically, Indonesia has imported about 500,000 metric tons of U.S. wheat per year. In the 2024/25 marketing year, imports reached 792,000 metric tons. Beginning in 2025, Indonesia will raise purchases to 800,000 metric tons, eventually increasing to 1 million metric tons, with an estimated $250 million annual trade value.
This move follows recent adjustments to sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) regulations related to fumigation and traceability, resolved in June 2025 after 18 months of joint work between USDA and the Indonesia Quarantine Agency.
Indonesia is one of the world’s top wheat importers, and its demand for wheat-based foods continues to grow. This agreement not only supports U.S. farmers but also strengthens America’s agricultural trade footprint in Southeast Asia.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: National