Description

ABSTRACT

A study was conducted under the framework of the project “Setting up a Blended Learning Program for Sustainable Inclusive Value Chain Development in Indonesia”, to analyze the value chain of Banana in Maluku Province, Indonesia. A number of government officials, traders, farmers were interviewed in this study in addition to studies of reports, statistical data, and literature. The study was able to map the Banana value chain system in Maluku Province and identified parties involved in the value chain. It was shown that Banana cultivation practices in the Maluku Islands are still a very simple, subsistent manner and lacks assistance from the government or other related parties. Data indicated, however, that there is a possibility to obtain five times benefit in Banana cultivation out of the capital invested. SWOT analyses revealed that Banana is rich in genetic diversity in Maluku province, which provides possibilities for further development in terms of the food industry, medicinal and agronomic sectors. There is, however, a need for improvement in many aspects along its value chain, including training of officials and farmers, provision of facilities for trading especially for export, etc. Possibility for the international market exists; however, there is a threat in that other provinces and other countries will take over the market opportunity when Maluku cannot be able to meet the standards required.

Keywords: Value chain, Banana, cost structure, SWOT analyzes