The potential for vanilla in Semarang Regency is enormous. Therefore, Susvijaryanto, Chairman of the Semarang Regency Vanilla Farmers Association (Astaniva), is urging all vanilla farmers to join and flood the global vanilla market.
“After being hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic, Astaniva member farmers are ready to recover. The quality of our commodities meets European and American market standards,” he explained during the release of dried vanilla extract by Semarang Regent Ngesti Nugraha in the courtyard of the local regent’s official residence on Tuesday morning (October 24, 2023).
He stated that his members’ vanilla production reaches eight tons per year. This amount is in the form of quality dried vanilla ready for sale. He admitted that many vanilla farmers are still reluctant to join the association, despite the high quality of their harvests. They argue that they don’t want the hassle and prefer to cultivate traditionally.
To that end, his office will continue to encourage farmers to collaborate. The association’s goal is to advance their agricultural practices and improve their welfare by expanding into the export market.
Susvijaryanto revealed that there are currently 26 farmers registered in the association. They are spread across the districts of Jambu, Sumowono, Bandungan, Bergas, Bawen, Ambarawa, and Susukan. They care for 13,620 productive vanilla trees.
For information, the exported vanilla extract amounted to 12 tons worth IDR 1.2 billion, which will be shipped to the United States. Some of it will be used in blends for world-famous soft drinks.
Semarang Regent Ngesti Nugraha emphasized that his office will remain committed to improving agricultural quality. In addition to providing education to farmers, they are also collaborating with relevant parties. The goal is to expand the market for quality agricultural products.
“We have also exported various types of vegetables such as cabbage, kale, and mustard greens from Bandungan,” he emphasized.