Indonesia launches 100-hectare cocoa farm project in Southwest Papua

The Agriculture Ministry's Directorate General of Plantations is rolling out a cocoa development scheme in Southwest Papua, starting with a 100-hectare pilot that could be expanded later. Kardiyono, who leads the Ambon Center for Plantation Seed and Plant Protection, explained that the project will supply high-quality seedlings and train residents to manage the trees. The regional government must first secure appropriate land and prepare prospective farmers, after which the central government will implement the plan.

Success depends on strong farmer cooperatives, continuous agricultural support, and local seed-nursery production. The ministry will monitor the entire process, from seed production to planting, to ensure a steady supply for future processing facilities. In addition to cocoa, the ministry is also assessing nutmeg and coconut cultivation based on district potential.