Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will review groundwater extraction permits following public controversy over bottled water producer AQUA’s alleged use of groundwater instead of mountain spring water. 

Deputy Minister Yuliot Tanjung said on Friday (24/10/2025) that the evaluation aims to ensure all companies comply with environmental and licensing standards.

“Based on the evaluation, if a company meets the requirements, they may continue operations. But if violations are found, corrective actions, or even termination, will be required, depending on groundwater conditions,” he said, as quoted by antaranews.com.

Deputy Minister Yuliot added that the licensing process is regulated under Ministerial Regulation No. 14/2024 and implemented by the Geological Agency. The ministry has issued around 4,700 groundwater utilization permits nationwide, including for beverage producers.

The review follows reports that AQUA sources water from drilled wells rather than natural springs, sparking debate over advertising transparency and environmental responsibility.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)