Directions and Development Strategies for Pepper (Piper nigrum L) Plantation in Belitung Regency

Abstract

Pepper (Piper nigrum L) is one of plantation commodities in the Belitung Regency and has been well known in international market. However, in recent years the total area and production has declined. Therefore it requires an effort to determine potential areas in terms of comparative advantage and competitive terms, also factors that influence the development of pepper plantation as well as its development strategy. The analysis which are used consist of Location Quotient (LQ), Shift Share Analysis (SSA), land suitability analysis, marketing margins, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and combining AHP and SWOT (A'WOT). The results showed that the Membalong sub district be prioritized in the development of pepper plantations. The most influential factor in development of pepper is land. Other factors influencing development of pepper based on degree of its influence are human resources, technology, market, and capital, respectively. Some of the proposed strategies are optimizing and maintaining natural resources potential, increasing the quality and quantity of products, diversification of processed pepper products, and improve bargaining position of the farmers.