DAMPAK KETERGANTUNGAN IMPOR PANGAN DI INDONESIA: PERSPEKTIF MAHASISWA TEKNOLOGI PANGAN UPI

Abstract

Indonesia's dependence on food imports is a strategic issue that has various impacts on national food security and sovereignty. This study aims to examine the impact of food import dependence from the perspective of students of the Food Technology Study Program, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI). A qualitative approach is used through thematically analyzed structured interviews to explore students' critical views on this issue. The results of the study show that students do not view import dependence solely due to the lack of natural resources, but rather the weak production, distribution, and lack of innovation in the national food sector. Respondents identified various challenges such as unequal food distribution, low infrastructure and technology support, and limited capacity of local farmers. Despite the positive side of imports such as price stabilization and product diversity, students believe that long-term dependence can exacerbate vulnerability to global crises, as well as hinder the growth of the local food industry. Therefore, synergy between the government, industry, and students is needed to strengthen food independence through innovation, strategic regulations, and empowerment of local resources. This student's view shows the urgency of the involvement of the younger generation in the formulation of sustainable food policies that are resilient to future challenges.