Umbi porang, also known as konjac, is a plant that is native to Indonesia and has been used for centuries for medicinal and culinary purposes. Recently, there has been a surge in demand for umbi porang in the international market, especially in Japan, South Korea, and China. This has created a lucrative business opportunity for farmers in Indonesia who can capitalize on the growing demand for this versatile plant. In this article, we will explore the world of ekspor umbi porang and how farmers in Indonesia can benefit from it.
What is Umbi Porang?
Umbi porang is a tuberous root that grows underground and is part of the Amorphophallus genus. It is commonly found in Indonesia, especially in the eastern part of the country. The tubers of umbi porang are high in glucomannan, a type of dietary fiber that is known for its health benefits. The plant is also rich in minerals and vitamins and is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
The Growing Demand for Umbi Porang
In recent years, there has been a growing demand for umbi porang in the international market, particularly in Japan, South Korea, and China. This is partly due to its high fiber content, which makes it an attractive ingredient for the food industry. Umbi porang is also used in the manufacture of shirataki noodles, a popular health food in Japan and South Korea.
The demand for umbi porang has led to an increase in prices, making it a lucrative crop for farmers in Indonesia. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the price of umbi porang has increased from Rp 8,000 per kilogram in 2016 to Rp 35,000 per kilogram in 2021.
The Benefits of Growing Umbi Porang
There are several benefits to growing umbi porang:
- High yield: Umbi porang is a high-yielding crop and can produce up to 20 tons per hectare.
- Low maintenance: Umbi porang requires little maintenance and is resistant to pests and diseases.
- Drought-resistant: Umbi porang can withstand long periods of drought, making it a suitable crop for areas with low rainfall.
- Lucrative: The growing demand for umbi porang in the international market has made it a highly profitable crop for farmers in Indonesia.
How to Grow Umbi Porang
Umbi porang is a tropical plant that requires a warm and humid climate to grow. It can be grown in a variety of soils, including sandy loam, clay loam, and loamy sand. Here are the steps to growing umbi porang:
- Prepare the land by clearing all weeds and debris.
- Plant the umbi porang in rows, spacing them 50-75 cm apart.
- Water the plants regularly, especially during the first few months of growth.
- Fertilize the plants with organic fertilizer, such as compost or manure, to improve soil fertility.
- Harvest the umbi porang after 8-12 months, when the leaves start to yellow and wither.
The Future of Umbi Porang
The future of umbi porang looks bright, with the growing demand for this versatile plant in the international market. The Indonesian government has recognized the potential of umbi porang and has set a target to export 50,000 tons of the crop by 2024. This presents a great opportunity for farmers in Indonesia to tap into this lucrative market and increase their income. With the right support and resources, the future of ekspor umbi porang in Indonesia looks promising.
Conclusion
Umbi porang is a highly versatile and lucrative crop that has the potential to benefit farmers in Indonesia. With the growing demand for this plant in the international market, the future of ekspor umbi porang looks bright. By understanding the benefits of growing umbi porang and the steps involved in cultivating it, farmers in Indonesia can capitalize on this lucrative business opportunity and increase their income.
