Prabowo's brother Hashim notes Japan, Saudi Arabia interest in Indonesian biochar

The Indonesian biochar industry is gaining international attention, with Japan and Saudi Arabia expressing interest in purchasing Indonesian biochar products. This development was highlighted by Hashim Djojohadikusumo, Chairman of the Indonesian Biochar Association International (ABII), who noted the current high demand for biochar amidst limited global supply. Indonesia's abundant agricultural waste presents an opportunity to develop a competitive biochar industry.

Biochar, a carbon-rich solid produced through the incomplete combustion of organic materials, is seen as both an environmental solution and a strategic opportunity for Indonesia. It can enhance food security, improve farmers' welfare, and contribute to building a globally competitive carbon economy. Hashim emphasized the importance of collaboration to realize this potential.

Japanese consumers and companies have shown interest in Indonesian biochar, while Saudi Arabia seeks the material for large-scale tree-planting projects in its arid desert environment. Biochar's ability to retain moisture makes it valuable for such initiatives. Indonesia's potential feedstock includes coconut shells, rice husks, cocoa shells, corn cobs, and poultry litter.

ABII and IDSurvey have signed a memorandum of understanding to capitalize on the growing market. The partnership aims to develop Indonesia's biochar sector by establishing national standards, creating an internationally accredited laboratory, and strengthening testing and quality-monitoring systems.

Phil Rickard, Executive Director of ABII, stated that Indonesia's biochar sector has evolved from research and pilot projects into an integrated ecosystem involving government, industry, academia, and users. He believes Indonesia has the potential to become a global leader in biochar and carbon removal.

Arisudono Soerono, President Director of IDSurvey, highlighted the importance of consistent quality and trusted standards for international market success. IDSurvey will support laboratory development, testing, and standardization, as well as certification and technical competency schemes.

The collaboration aims to prepare laboratory capabilities and certification schemes for endorsement by the World Biochar Certification, which is expected to enhance international confidence in Indonesian biochar. Beyond exports, ABII is promoting biochar use in agriculture through Climate-Smart Agriculture initiatives, including its integration with Alternate Wetting and Drying practices to improve farm productivity and reduce methane emissions.

The Arsari Group, owned by Hashim Djojohadikusumo, is developing biorefinery projects in East Kalimantan province. Hashim, Indonesia’s Special Presidential Envoy for Climate and Energy, has criticized the Just Energy Transition Partnership, citing a lack of financial support from the U.S. government.

In other news, Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto has ordered an investigation into alleged tin smuggling routes following the shutdown of illegal mines in Bangka Belitung. Additionally, Qatar has committed to building six million homes in Indonesia, a significant increase from its earlier commitment.