Indonesia is emerging as a regional frontrunner in setting standards for cage-free egg production. The government is developing comprehensive animal welfare regulations that explicitly support cage-free laying hen farming systems, signaling a growing shift toward more humane and sustainable farming practices.

“These regulations serve as the legal basis for animal welfare standards in Indonesia, including animal welfare certification points that can serve as a reference for farmers developing more welfare-oriented husbandry systems, including for laying hen farms,” said Dr. Puguh Wahyudi, Head of the Animal Welfare Advocacy Working Team at the Ministry of Agriculture.

Lever Foundation has been actively supporting Indonesia’s cage-free momentum, guiding companies making the transition. Sandi Dwiyanto, Lever’s Sustainable Poultry Program Manager, reports that over 100 Indonesian companies have already made cage-free commitments, joining 2,000+ companies worldwide that have adopted cage-free policies since 2015. Major brands like KFC, Pizza Hut, Burger King, and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf are advancing their cage-free transitions alongside Nestlé’s 2025 deadline, while local champion Superindo pledges 100% cage-free retail availability, joined by hospitality leaders Ismaya, Bali Budha, and Jiwa Jawi.

The government recognizes that global markets are rapidly shifting toward cage-free requirements. With the European Union mandating 100% cage-free production and WTO rulings establishing animal welfare as legitimate trade criterion, Indonesia is preparing for export market demands. Dr. Wahyudi emphasizes that the government is providing support to farmers starting to implement cage-free systems, acknowledging that “the current global trend is indeed moving in that direction.” He adds that when Indonesian products face export requirements for cage-free, “Indonesia will prepare products that meet consumer demand.”

“When transformation arrives, we’ll be ready,” said Roby Tjahya Dharma Gandawijaya, industry leader at PT Inti Prima Satwa Sejahtera, advocating for multi-stakeholder collaboration across feed, equipment, and pharmaceutical sectors. Through localized implementation support, Lever Foundation provides technical guidance for cage-free transitions, shares global best practices, and connects businesses with essential resources to make their cage-free commitments a reality.

As regulations approach finalization and cage-free adoption accelerates, Indonesia demonstrates how government leadership, corporate commitments, and civil society support can drive systemic change. With over 100 companies already committed to cage-free and government regulations providing clear frameworks, Indonesia is establishing itself as Southeast Asia’s leader in the transition to cage-free egg production—a transformation that Lever Foundation continues to actively support through technical expertise and strategic engagement.