Signifikan : Jurnal Ilmu Ekonomi
Vol. 15 No. 1 (2026)

The Role of Fertilizer Subsidies in Rice Productivity and Profitability: Evidence from Indonesian Smallholder Farmers

Widyastutik, Widyastutik (Unknown)
Aminah, Mimin (Unknown)
Panjaitan, Dian Verawati (Unknown)
Cahyadi, Eko Ruddy (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Apr 2026

Abstract

Research Originality: This study provides micro-level evidence on the dual effects of fertilizer subsidies on rice farmers’ production and profitability, a dimension rarely examined simultaneously at the household level in Indonesia. Using data from two contrasting rice-producing regions, the study isolates subsidy effects on both physical output and farm profit while controlling for input costs and price conditions. Research Objectives: To analyze the effects of fertilizer subsidies on rice production and farm profit in Karawang (West Java) and Lombok (West Nusa Tenggara). Research Methods: OLS regression was applied to cross-sectional data from 51 rice-farming households. Two models were estimated: a production function and a profit function. Empirical Results: Fertilizer quantity, land size, and labor positively influence rice production. Farm profit is significantly affected by production quantity, rice price, total cost, and pesticide cost. Fertilizer cost is not a significant determinant of profit. Implications: Fertilizer quantity, not cost, drives production. Subsidies should be maintained but reoriented toward targeted, quantity-based schemes and improved distribution efficiency to maximize welfare impact. JEL Classification: Q12, Q18, D24, I32

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