Wartime creates a domino effect, causing several problems across the world. Rising prices of gas and other commodities are not the only effect of the war. Indonesia is experiencing a noodle crisis because of the war.
What is the Noodle crisis all about?
Indonesia is experiencing a noodle crisis as a domino effect of the war, despite being far away from the location. The conflict has caused a shortage in the supply of Indomie noodles. Indomie is an iconic and highly popular instant noodle brand. Indomie was the first brand to introduce and popularize instant noodles in the country. It is popular in all segments, especially amongst students wanting a quick snack. Ukraine is the biggest wheat supplier to Indonesia. Additionally, as per Indonesia’s National Statistics Bureau, three million tonnes of Wheat in 2020 alone.
Ever since the Russian invasion, activity at Ukrainian ports has slowed down, hitting the production of Indomie. “People have been coming up to us and asking why there isn’t any Indomie left,” stated Muhammad Nasir. Nasir is an employee at a convenience store.
The rising threat of food security
Media reports reveal that stores across the nation are running out of fresh stocks. Additionally, prices of existing stocks are rising across the country. “When Russia invaded Ukraine, activities at Ukrainian ports stopped,” stated Lestary J Barany. Barany is a research assistant at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). “Many granaries were located in the east, close to areas occupied by Russian troops. Thus, the threat from the supply side for these materials is becoming more real,” she added. Additionally, earlier this month Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo warned about the rising prices of food across the world. “We must manage the economy carefully at this time,” he stated.