ABSTRACT

Biofertilizers are biological products containing microorganisms that help improve nutrient availability, decompose organic matter, and enhance fertilizer efficiency. This literature study aims to understand the regulations governing biofertilizers in Indonesia, the potential and challenges of their use, and the development of effective strategies to increase their adoption in sustainable agriculture. In Indonesia, their application is regulated by the Ministry of Agriculture Regulation No. 01/2019 and Decree No. 261/KPTS/SR.310/M/4/2019 to maintain product quality and support sustainable agriculture. To ensure the effectiveness and safety of biofertilizers, the Indonesian government mandates compliance with specific technical standards. Biofertilizers can be categorized by their functions and mechanisms of action, including nitrogen-fixers, phosphorus-solubilizers, phosphorus-mobilizers, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), potassium-solubilizers, potassium-mobilizers, and micronutrients. Although biofertilizers offer long-term benefits, such as cost-effectiveness, eco-friendliness, and improved soil fertility, their wider adoption faces several obstacles. These include limited shelf life, environmental challenges under natural field conditions, lack of marketing infrastructure, and low farmer awareness or acceptance. To overcome these barriers, it is necessary to increase production, provide farmer training, and implement demonstration programs that highlight the economic and agronomic advantages of using biofertilizers compared to conventional practices.

Keywords: Biofertilizers, regulation, soil fertility, sustainable agriculture

INTRODUCTION

Most of the soils in tropical countries are acidic soils (ultisol, oxisol). Approximately 500 million hectares (16.2%) of land on the African continent (Bationo et al., 2006) and 38% of the land area in Southeast Asia are acid soils (van Uexkull and Bosshart 1989). Acid soils in Indonesia cover a total area of 45,794,000 ha, almost 25% of the land area, and are distributed across the islands in varying proportions. Kalimantan Island has the largest area of acid soils, namely (21,938,000 ha), followed by Sumatra Island (9,469,000 ha), Maluku and Papua (8,859,000 ha), Sulawesi (4,303,000 ha), Java (1,172,000 ha), and Nusa Tenggara (53,000 ha) (Subagyo et al., 2004). Acid soil has low pH, low nutrient content, high aluminum and iron levels, and low organic matter (Kochian et al., 2004), which can inhibit plant growth. These conditions are the main constraints on plant growth and productivity.

Various efforts have been made to increase plant growth and productivity on acidic soils, such as adding lime to increase soil pH, using chemical fertilizers to increase soil nutrient content and adding compost to increase soil organic C content. The use of chemical fertilizers tends to increase production relatively quickly. However, if used excessively and continuously, it can have negative impacts on the environment and soil fertility, including decreased organic matter content, water pollution, reduced resistance to certain pests and diseases, and a decline in soil microbial diversity (Kartikawati et al., 2017). The efficiency of chemical fertilizer use is also relatively low, as most of it is lost to the environment through evaporation, leaching, or fixation in the soil (Suntari et al., 2021). Therefore, there is a need for more environmentally friendly fertilizer alternatives to increase crop productivity and reduce the negative impacts of chemical fertilizers.

Biofertilizer is an alternative to improve soil fertility and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, which can have negative environmental impacts. In Indonesia, biofertilizer has been widely used in agriculture to increase crop yields and quality. However, the use of biofertilizer also requires proper regulation to ensure its safety and effectiveness. In recent years, the Indonesian government has issued several regulations governing the use of biofertilizers in agriculture. These regulations aim to ensure that biofertilizers used are safe for the environment and humans, and effective in improving soil fertility. However, many challenges remain in the use of biofertilizers in Indonesia. These challenges include a lack of awareness among farmers about the benefits of biofertilizers, insufficient infrastructure for their production and distribution, and limited research on the effectiveness of biofertilizers across different soils and crop production systems. Therefore, this literature study aims to understand the regulations governing biofertilizers in Indonesia, the potential and challenges of their use, and the development of effective strategies to increase their adoption in sustainable agriculture.

DEFINITION AND TYPES OF BIOFERTILIZER

Definition of biofertilizers

Biofertilizers are active biological products consisting of microorganisms identified to at least the genus level that facilitate the direct or indirect provision of nutrients, break down organic matter, and improve fertilizer efficiency, fertility, and soil health (Ministry of Agriculture, 2019). The microbial groups commonly used in biofertilizers include nitrogen-fixing microorganisms, nutrient-solubilizing microorganisms (particularly phosphorus and potassium), and microorganisms that can stimulate plant growth (Pangaribuan et al., 2017). These microbes colonize the rhizosphere and the plant interior when applied, promoting plant growth. They not only add nutrients to the soil, but also protect the plant against pests and diseases. They have been shown to enhance seedling survival, extend the lifespan of the root system, eliminate harmful chemicals, and shorten flowering time (Youssef and Eissa, 2014). In other words, biofertilizers are inoculants that contain living organisms as active ingredients and play a role in fixing certain nutrients or in making nutrients available in the soil for plants. This process can occur by enhancing the plant's ability to access nutrients, such as through the assistance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, dissolution by phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms, or decomposition by fungi, actinomycetes, and earthworms. Nutrient supply can occur through both symbiotic and non-symbiotic interactions (Delvia et al., 2022).

Biofertilizers differ from chemical and organic fertilizers in that they do not directly provide nutrients to plants; rather, they are cultures of specific bacteria and fungi. Biofertilizers also offer lower costs and greater benefits in agriculture than chemical fertilizers (Katiyar et al., 2021). Biofertilizers are a general term for various groups of functional soil microbes that provide nutrients to plants (Itelima et al., 2018). This term is relatively new compared to the use of one of the first commercial biofertilizers in the world, namely Rhizobium inoculants, which have been used for more than a century. According to Katiyar et al. (2021), biofertilizers are used in various forms, such as single super phosphate and different brands of potash, including Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited (RCF), Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperation Limited (IFFCO), Mahadhan, Koromandal, Sardar, and Shreeram. Additionally, biofertilizers like Rhizobium, Azotobacter, and Cyanobacteria or Blue-Green Algae (BGA) are employed because they take a very long time to fix atmospheric nitrogen and store it for plants.

Types of biofertilizers

Biofertilizers can be categorized according to their specific functions and mechanisms of action. According to Bhattacharjee and Dey (2014), the primary types commonly applied in agriculture include nitrogen-fixing organisms (N-fixers), phosphorus-solubilizing microbes (P-solubilizers), phosphorus-mobilizing microbes (P-mobilizers), and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). In addition, there are also other types of biofertilizers, such as potassium-solubilizing (K-solubilizers), potassium-mobilizing (K-mobilizers), and micronutrient (Daniel et al., 2022). Table 1 provides an overview of this classification, detailing the types of microorganisms involved, their mechanisms of action, and representative examples for each category.

Table 1. Types of biofertilizers and their mechanism of action

Source: Bhattacharjee and Dey (2014); Daniel et al. (2022); Singh and Mehta (2019); Kumar et al. (2017)

Benefits of biofertilizers in agriculture

Biofertilizers offer a range of ecological and agronomic benefits, making them an essential component of sustainable agriculture. These microbial-based inputs enhance nutrient availability by fixing atmospheric nitrogen, solubilizing phosphorus and potassium, and producing plant growth-promoting substances (Bhattacharjee and Dey, 2014). Unlike chemical fertilizers, biofertilizers improve soil structure and fertility over time by stimulating beneficial soil microbial activity and increasing organic matter. They also reduce environmental risks by minimizing nutrient leaching, groundwater contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions (Chakraborty and Akhtar, 2021).While financial constraints remain a barrier to adoption, increasing farmer acceptance requires a shift from traditional direct subsidies toward targeted financial incentives. Rather than creating long-term dependency on government funding, support should focus on reducing the initial risk of transition. This can be achieved through 'bridge financing,' tax credits for sustainable inputs, or crop insurance programs that protect farmers during the initial soil-conversion phase. As such, integrating biofertilizers into agricultural practices supports long-term soil health, crop productivity, and environmental sustainability.

Biofertilizers hold significant potential in agriculture for maintaining and enhancing the yields of various crops, including legumes, fruits, vegetables, and forest products. Numerous global studies have confirmed that biofertilizers can boost crop productivity. They benefit plants in several ways by improving nitrogen fixation, mineralizing nutrients, releasing nutrients bound in the soil, and producing phytohormones that help plants cope with environmental stress (Zakeel and Safeena, 2019). According to Gautam et al. (2021), the use of biofertilizers in cereal and legume cultivation offers additional benefits, including increased levels of minerals, proteins, and amino acids, thereby enhancing the nutritional and economic value of these crops. Likewise, biofertilizers have been shown to improve the productivity of vegetables, fruit crops, and commercially grown flowers. A well-known example of successful biofertilizer application is the long-standing practice of inoculating legumes with Rhizobia, which form a symbiotic relationship with the plants and fix atmospheric nitrogen (Atieno et al., 2020).

REGULATION OF BIOFERTILIZERS IN INDONESIA

Government regulations on biofertilizers

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has established a comprehensive legal framework to regulate the production, registration, and distribution of biofertilizers. The most relevant and up-to-date legislation is Minister of Agriculture Regulation (Peraturan Menteri Pertanian or Permentan) Number 01 of 2019, titled “Registration of Organic Fertilizers, Biofertilizers, and Soil Conditioners.” This regulation replaces the earlier Permentan No. 70/2011 and serves as the legal foundation for ensuring that all fertilizers marketed in Indonesia, including biofertilizers, are safe, effective, and environmentally friendly. In addition, this regulation aims to protect the environment and biodiversity, while also providing business certainty for producers and users of biofertilizers. Under this regulation, all biofertilizer products must be officially registered with the Ministry before they are distributed or sold. Furthermore, biofertilizer producers must ensure that their products are manufactured in registered facilities, and any change in ownership, company address, or production location must be reported to the Ministry. Some of the key points or provisions in this regulation are presented as follows:

1. Mandatory registration and labeling requirements

All biofertilizers, both domestically produced and imported, must be registered with the Ministry of Agriculture before they can be marketed or distributed. The registration process follows a risk-based licensing system that evaluates the product's safety and efficacy. Each registered product must clearly display the brand, composition, and official registration number on its packaging to maintain transparency and traceability.

2. Supervision and reporting obligations

Producers or registration holders are required to report their production or import activities every six months to the Directorate General of Agricultural Facilities and Infrastructure. The government also conducts post-market surveillance to ensure compliance.

3. Quality of microbial viability and agronomic efficacy

Biofertilizers distributed in Indonesia must meet Indonesian National Standards (SNI) or minimum technical requirements and be guaranteed to their viability and agronomic efficacy. A significant challenge in promoting biofertilizers lies in the potential discrepancy between microbial viability and agronomic efficacy. While technical viability defined by the survival and concentration of bacterial strains (CFU counts) is a prerequisite, farmer acceptance is primarily driven by 'observable criteria' in the field. This efficacy is measured through tangible outcomes such as enhanced crop growth, increased yield, and a lower incidence of soil-borne diseases. Therefore, government policy should prioritize the establishment of standardized field-validation protocols. These protocols ensure that a product's laboratory-certified viability translates into consistent agronomic performance across diverse greenhouse and open-field environments, thereby reducing the uncertainty that currently hinders adoption.

4. Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

If a biofertilizer contains genetically engineered microbes, it must comply with Indonesian biosafety regulations and regulations on genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

5. Sanctions for non-compliance

Violations of these regulations may result in administrative penalties, such as written warnings, product recalls, or revocation of registration.

6. Government support programs

In the context of agricultural subsidies or assistance programs, biofertilizers can be distributed as stimulants to farmer groups (Poktan/Gapoktan), provided that they meet the technical and safety criteria.

Quality standards for biofertilizers

Biofertilizers are cost-effective inputs that offer significant benefits to agricultural productivity. The Ministry of Agriculture (2011) explains that to become officially registered as a biofertilizer, its content and effectiveness must be tested in the field. The success of biofertilizer application largely depends on two key factors: the effectiveness of the microbial strain and the formulation of the inoculant. In practical terms, formulation plays a critical role in determining the potential, efficacy, and adaptability of the inoculant under field conditions. The term inoculant, often used interchangeably with biofertilizer, refers to a preparation containing beneficial microorganisms that promote plant growth (Malusá et al., 2012). To ensure the effectiveness and safety of biofertilizers, the Indonesian government mandates compliance with specific technical standards. These are outlined in the Decree of the Minister of Agriculture No. 261/KPTS/SR.310/M/4/2019, which defines the minimum technical requirements for organic fertilizers, biofertilizers, and soil conditioners.

1. Laboratory quality and agronomic effectiveness testing

Before registration, every biofertilizer product must undergo rigorous laboratory quality testing by an accredited agency. The resulting report must detail microbial viability, stability, nutrient composition, and contaminant levels. Furthermore, the product’s efficacy must be validated through field trials conducted under standard agronomic conditions. These conditions refer to open-field environments managed according to regional Best Management Practices (BMPs)—including optimized soil pH (typically 6.0–7.5), consistent moisture levels, and standard mechanical operations—to ensure the trial reflects real-world farming. A product is deemed effective if it performs at least as well as the industry benchmark at a 95% significance level (i.e., Relative Agronomic Effectiveness or (i.e., RAE ≥ 95%). Alternatively, it must demonstrate a statistically significant increase in nutrient efficiency that provides a clear economic benefit to the farmer. All trials must be performed specifically on the target crop and soil types for which the biofertilizer is intended.

2. Product composition and safety requirements

The regulation requires that biofertilizers include detailed data on: (1) microbial content and viability (measured in CFU or spore counts); (2) carrier materials and physical form (liquid, powder, granule, tablet); (3) shelf-life and storage stability; (4) application instructions, dosage, and crop compatibility; and (5) pH, contamination thresholds, and absence of harmful pathogens. If the product falls under mandatory SNI, it must adhere to specifications such as SNI 6729:2016 for biofertilizers, which define microbial strains, inoculant density, and formulation safety. Minimum technical requirements for single and compound biofertilizers based on the Decree of the Minister of Agriculture No. 261/KPTS/SR.310/M/4/2019 are presented in Table 2.

Table 2. Minimum technical requirements for biofertilizers

Notes: cfu = colony-forming unit

3. Labeling and registration code format

Each registered biofertilizer product is assigned a unique registration number, which follows a standardized code structure. For example, "03.02.2019.100" indicates that the product is a biofertilizer (code 03), liquid form (02), registered in 2019, and is the 100^th registered product in that category. This labelling system helps trace the origin and validity of the product.

4. Monitoring, supervision, and sanctions

The Ministry of Agriculture conducts post-market surveillance and sampling of biofertilizers in circulation. Suppose a product is found to be non-compliant or its registration has expired. In that case, the Ministry can impose administrative sanctions ranging from written warnings to market withdrawal. Manufacturers are also liable for costs related to recall and safe disposal. Moreover, producers must submit regular reports if there are changes in formulation, efficacy claims, or packaging.

Monitoring and control of biofertilizers

Monitoring and control of biofertilizers in Indonesia are crucial components of the regulatory framework implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure product quality, environmental safety, and field effectiveness. These mechanisms are primarily mandated under Minister of Agriculture Regulation No. 01 of 2019 concerning the Registration of Organic Fertilizers, Biofertilizers, and Soil Conditioners.

1. Supervision by Government Agencies

The Directorate General of Agricultural Infrastructure and Facilities (Direktorat Jenderal Prasarana dan Sarana Pertanian - Ditjen PSP) is responsible for supervising the production, registration, distribution, and use of biofertilizers. This includes: (1) verification of production facilities and practices; (2) evaluation of submitted data on microbial content and efficacy; (3) inspection of product labeling and packaging by registration requirements; and (4) assessment of environmental risks and safety of microbial strains used.

2. Post-market surveillance

Post-market control ensures that biofertilizers circulating in the market continue to meet the registered quality standards. This includes: (1) random sampling and laboratory testing of products from various regions; (2) field evaluations to determine real-world effectiveness; and (3) traceability monitoring of batch numbers and product distribution channels. Suppose a product is found to deviate from its registered specifications or pose risks to crops, soils, or the environment. In that case, administrative actions may be taken, such as issuing written warnings, withdrawing products from the market, and revoking registration numbers.

3. Reporting obligations

Producers and importers of biofertilizers are required to submit biannual reports on production volumes, distribution, and sales to the Ministry of Agriculture. This helps authorities track market movement and detect irregularities in production or performance.

4. Environmental safety and risk management

Products containing genetically modified microorganisms or derived from industrial waste must pass strict environmental risk assessments. These evaluations ensure that microbial agents used in biofertilizers do not disrupt local ecosystems or threaten biodiversity. Approval from relevant biosafety authorities is required for any genetically engineered strains.

5. Certification and lab testing

Authorized laboratories accredited by the Ministry of Agriculture or the National Accreditation Committee (KAN) are responsible for testing microbial viability, contamination levels, and other quality indicators. Certification from these labs is a prerequisite for product registration and renewal.

POTENTIAL AND CHALLENGES OF BIOFERTILIZERS IN INDONESIA

Producers and their products of biofertilizers in Indonesia

Indonesia, as an agrarian country with vast tropical land, has significant potential for the development and application of biofertilizers in sustainable agriculture. In response to this need, various producers in Indonesia, ranging from state-owned enterprises to private companies and regional innovators, have developed and commercialized a wide range of biofertilizer products. Each product is formulated with specific beneficial microorganisms tailored to local soil conditions, crop types, and agricultural challenges. This development reflects the nation's commitment to reducing chemical dependency while promoting sustainable and environmentally sound farming practices. Table 3 below presents data on several biofertilizer producers in Indonesia, along with their products.

Table 3. List of biofertilizer producers in Indonesia

Potential of biofertilizers in improving soil fertility

Biofertilizers have emerged as a viable alternative to chemical fertilizers for enhancing soil fertility and boosting crop yields within sustainable farming systems. Long-term use of biofertilizers can significantly improve soil fertility due to their cost-effectiveness, eco-friendliness, and sustainability (Mahanty, 2017). The soil ecosystem is inhabited by microorganisms that enhance biological activity, thereby helping the soil mobilize nutrients essential for plant growth and ensuring soil sustainability. According to Atieno et al. (2020), microorganisms in biofertilizers offer several advantages, including providing an affordable nutrient source, producing growth hormones, supplying micronutrients, and mitigating the harmful effects of chemical fertilizers.

Biofertilizers keep the soil environment rich in various macro- and micro-nutrients via nitrogen fixation, phosphate and potassium solubilization, release of plant growth-regulating substances, production of antibiotics, and biodegradation of organic matter in the soil (Sinha et al., 2010). Under lowland conditions, the combined use of BGA and Azospirillum has been shown to increase grain yields significantly. Inoculating crops with beneficial microorganisms such as Azotobacter, Rhizobium, and Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (VAM), mainly when used alongside rock phosphate as a phosphorus source, has resulted in the highest increases in both grain and straw yields in wheat (Itelima et al., 2018). İn addition, Azolla, a cost-effective and environmentally friendly biofertilizer, contributes to soil enrichment by adding carbon and nitrogen. Moreover, certain microorganisms like Bacillus subtilis, Thiobacillus thioxidans, and Saccharomyces species are capable of symbiotic nitrogen fixation, with studies indicating that soybean can meet up to 80-90% of its nitrogen requirements through such symbiotic associations (Bhattacharjee and Dey, 2014). Table 4 below summarizes the potential applications of biofertilizers across various crops.

Table 4. Summary of biofertilizer potential on various crops

Notes: PSB = Phosphate-Solubilizing Bacteria

Challenges in using biofertilizers

Biofertilizers have shown significant potential to maintain environmental sustainability and reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers. Beyond improving soil fertility and microbial diversity, they can also help manage plant diseases, even under stressful conditions. However, several challenges hinder the widespread acceptance and commercialization of biofertilizers globally. These limitations raise concerns among investors regarding their application, which may negatively impact both the production and marketing of biofertilizers.

1. Shelf-life constraints

The formulation process heavily influences the viability of microorganisms in biofertilizers during production, storage, and application stages (Bharti and Suryavanshi, 2021). These aspects play a crucial role in determining the effectiveness and commercial value of biofertilizers. According to Bharti and Suryavanshi (2021), solid-based biofertilizers typically have a shelf-life of about 6 months, whereas liquid formulations can remain effective for up to 2 years. However, solid carriers are prone to contamination due to inadequate sterilization. Over time, moisture loss in the carrier material also reduces microbial viability, and these formulations are generally not resistant to high temperatures or UV radiation. In contrast, liquid biofertilizers were developed as an improved alternative. They contain higher concentrations of microbial inoculum and offer better resistance to heat and UV exposure (Bharti and Suryavanshi, 2021). Although they have a longer shelf-life, up to two years, liquid biofertilizers are less widely used due to their higher production costs (Bharti and Suryavanshi, 2021).

2. Environmental constraints under natural conditions

Microbial inoculants are developed as pure cultures based on laboratory test results, and applying them in the field requires consideration of several additional factors. These include microbial biodiversity, genetic variability, climate conditions, water availability, and the use of herbicides or pesticides. Such natural variables are highly unpredictable and cannot be accurately replicated in laboratory simulations. Therefore, researchers have recommended developing mathematical models to better understand how plants and microbes interact under real environmental conditions.

3. Marketing constraints

The limited availability of biofertilizers is largely due to the lack of proper marketing channels and infrastructure. Promoting these products is particularly challenging because they contain living microorganisms with short shelf lives (Barman et al., 2017). Additionally, varying weather conditions complicate the distribution, storage, and transportation of biofertilizers to farmers. Another issue is the absence of standardized regulations for packaging, labeling, and pricing (Barman et al., 2017). Although some governments provide subsidies to support the sales of biofertilizers, the systems are often inconsistent and poorly coordinated across countries, leading to significant price differences within the market. Furthermore, many end users, especially farmers in agriculture-dependent regions, have limited education and awareness. This lack of understanding about biofertilizers and microbe-based agricultural practices makes outreach and adoption more difficult.

4. Farmer acceptance

Despite the broad metabolic capabilities of bio-inoculants, their adoption among consumers remains limited due to several challenges. To encourage wider use, it is essential to address the barriers, concerns, and challenges faced by biofertilizer users. Their affordability, combined with benefits such as improved soil health, better soil structure, and increased water retention capacity, makes biofertilizers a valuable tool in agriculture (Chakraborty and Akhtar, 2021). However, rural farmers often do not fully recognize their potential for sustainably increasing crop yields. This is mainly due to a lack of information and resources regarding appropriate dosages, optimal application timing, correct usage methods, and the comparative benefits of biofertilizers over chemical alternatives (Aggani, 2013). Additional obstacles include limited government financial support and subsidies, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of technical guidance. Other barriers to adoption include skepticism, a lack of interest, and limited trust in biofertilizers' effectiveness.

Entrepreneurs also face difficulties due to a lack of knowledge about proper application methods and limited access to marketing resources. To strengthen the presence of biofertilizers in the agricultural market, collaboration between agrochemical companies and policymakers is crucial (Yadav and Yadav, 2024). Government-led promotional policies play a crucial role in educating farmers and demonstrating the benefits of alternative farming methods. Increasing consumer acceptance and generating demand requires active participation in innovative research. Furthermore, both national and local governments must support initiatives that promote the widespread use of biofertilizers to foster sustainable agricultural practices. Strategies such as expanding biofertilizer production, implementing farmer education programs, and running demonstration projects to showcase the economic benefits of biofertilizers over untreated crops can all contribute to improved crop yields and agricultural sustainability.

Environmental impact of biofertilizer use

The use of biofertilizers offers significant environmental benefits compared to chemical fertilizers, making them a promising component of sustainable agricultural systems. Unlike synthetic inputs, biofertilizers do not contribute to soil and water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, or biodiversity loss. They enhance soil biological activity by increasing microbial diversity, improving nutrient cycling, and promoting soil fertility (Itelima et al., 2018). Moreover, biofertilizers help reduce dependence on fossil-fuel-based chemical fertilizers, thereby lowering the environmental footprint of crop production (Ejedegba, 2024). Their use also promotes a more balanced, regenerative approach to farming, helping maintain ecological integrity while meeting the growing demand for food. With growing global awareness of climate change and environmental degradation, the transition toward biofertilizers is becoming increasingly relevant in shaping the future of agriculture.

Beyond these benefits, biofertilizers also play a crucial role in mitigating soil degradation, a significant concern associated with the overuse of chemical fertilizers. Continuous dependence on synthetic inputs depletes soil organic matter, disrupts microbial communities, and accelerates acidification. In contrast, biofertilizers help restore soil health by replenishing organic content and enhancing microbial biodiversity (Itelima et al., 2018). Long-term application has been shown to improve soil structure, reduce erosion, and boost agroecosystem resilience to climate change (Khan et al., 2024). However, to fully realize these environmental benefits, the production and use of biofertilizers must adhere to good agricultural practices and be regulated through strict quality control standards to avoid contamination or misuse. Integrating biofertilizers into modern farming not only addresses environmental concerns but also contributes to global sustainability goals by aligning agricultural productivity with ecological preservation. 

CONCLUSION

Biofertilizers are biological products containing microorganisms that enhance nutrient availability, fertilizer efficiency, soil fertility, and soil health. In Indonesia, their use is regulated by the Ministry of Agriculture through Regulation No. 01/2019 and Decree No. 261/KPTS/SR.310/M/4/2019, ensuring quality and sustainability. Despite their cost-effectiveness, eco-friendliness, and sustainability, their adoption faces challenges such as short shelf life, environmental constraints, marketing barriers, and limited farmer acceptance. Strategies such as expanding production, educating farmers, and implementing demonstration programs can promote their use and support sustainable agriculture.

Future research on biofertilizers should focus on their long-term effectiveness across various soil types and crops, as well as the microbial interactions within consortia. Improving formulation stability and carrier materials is crucial for enhancing product quality. On the regulatory side, studies are needed to evaluate testing methods and enforcement of quality standards. Additionally, research on farmer adoption and field-level challenges will help shape more practical and targeted policies.

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