Jakarta, July 23 -- Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman assessed that the Red and White Village Cooperatives are spearheading the development of a fairer food distribution system and enhancing the competitiveness of local farmers.

"Cooperatives are a concrete solution to shorten the long food distribution chain. Strong village cooperatives can prevent farmers from being trapped by middlemen," he noted in a statement quoted on Tuesday.

He also emphasized that the Ministry of Agriculture will fully support the Red and White Village Cooperatives.

Sulaiman said, with the cooperatives in place, adulterated fertilizers harmful to farmers, substandard rice, and cooking oil sold in incorrect volumes that negatively affect the community wi...