Jakarta, April 19 (QNA) - Indonesia has announced that it will stop importing diesel starting July 1, the date the country launches its B50 biodiesel program.

The announcement was made by Indonesia's Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran in a press statement on Sunday.

This marks the country's shift towards using B50, a blend of 50 percent palm oil-based biodiesel and ​50 percent conventional ​diesel.

Minister Amran pointed out that this step is part of government efforts to enhance national energy independence by using palm oil as an alternative fuel.

He noted that palm oil is not limited to diesel production, but can also be converted into gasoline and ethanol, noting that efforts are currently underway to accelerate the development of these applications.

This move comes amid global supply disruptions and rising risks in the Strait of Hormuz, with Indonesia moving to reshape its energy security strategy by reducing reliance on fuel imports and strengthening domestic alternatives. (QNA)