Indonesia’s Ministry of Transmigration has announced plans to support rubber farmers in improving productivity and increasing their income, as part of broader efforts to strengthen rural economic development in the country.
Deputy Minister of Transmigration Viva Yoga Mauladi said the government is focusing on empowering rubber farming communities, particularly in transmigration areas across Sumatra and Kalimantan, where millions of households depend on the commodity for their livelihood.
According to the ministry, Indonesia has around 2.1 million rubber farming households, with nearly 90 percent consisting of smallholder farmers. The government believes stronger institutional support and improved farming practices are necessary to help these communities achieve sustainable growth and better economic conditions.
The ministry plans to collaborate with several agencies, including the Ministry of Agriculture, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and the Ministry of Public Works, to implement programs aimed at increasing plantation productivity and improving product quality.
Key measures being discussed include replanting aging rubber trees, improving fertilization practices, strengthening plantation infrastructure, and developing high-yield rubber seed varieties through research and innovation. Officials noted that many rubber plantations are over 25 years old, resulting in declining productivity.
The government is also encouraging the development of downstream rubber industries based on smallholder production, allowing farmers to gain greater added value from their harvests instead of relying solely on raw material sales.
Indonesia remains one of the world’s leading rubber exporters, second only to Thailand, and the commodity continues to play an important role in the nation’s export economy. Authorities believe strengthening the rubber sector could further support regional economic growth and improve rural welfare.
The announcement was made during a farmers’ meeting held in Sebuntal Village, Kutai Kartanegara, East Kalimantan.