Kerinci promotes patchouli as a flagship crop through cultivation techniques
Kerinci, Jambi (ANTARA) - The Kerinci Regency Government, Jambi Province, continues to encourage the development of patchouli (Pogostemon cablin Benth) as one of its flagship plantation commodities through advanced cultivation techniques to strengthen the economy and the welfare of the local community.
“This step is part of the local government’s commitment to facilitating and directly connecting the production potential of farmers with industrial needs and market demands,” said the Regent of Kerinci, Monadi, in Kerinci on Sunday.
According to Monadi, the development efforts already undertaken include strengthening cultivation techniques, improving the quality of processed patchouli oil, and expanding access to both national and export markets.
Monadi explained that while inspecting cultivation activities and patchouli centres in Tambak Tinggi, Sekungkung, and Belui Tinggi villages, he felt optimistic about the development of the commodity.
Furthermore, the quality of the patchouli oil produced is believed to be capable of penetrating both national and international markets.
To maintain quality, the local government also brought potential buyers to monitor the condition and quality of the patchouli being developed by local farmer groups.
During the visit, buyers observed all stages of production, ranging from crop management at the farmer level, the distillation and processing of results, and quality standard checks, to the mapping of marketing partnership opportunities.
He added that the presence of buyers is expected to open up supply chains and create sustainable investment partnerships with local farmers.
Through proper market connectivity, Monadi ensured that Kerinci’s patchouli commodity is not only superior in quality but also achieves price certainty and a wider distribution reach.
“Our patchouli oil has unique characteristics; we are continuously pushing its market to establish patchouli as a new economic pillar for the people of Kerinci,” he said.