Implications of the Application of Rafaksi on Cassava Farmers' Income in Central Lampung Regency

Abstract

This study aims to analyze starch content, production costs, and farmers' income across three cassava seed varieties (Adira 4, Garuda, and Sekoci) in Central Lampung Regency, and to evaluate the implications of the rafaksi standard imposed by tapioca factories on farmers' income. Data were collected through interviews with 174 farmers and analyzed using the Luff-Schoorl method for starch content, as well as the revenue-to-cost (R/C) ratio to assess the relationship between costs and income. The results show that the Adira 4 variety has the highest starch content at 33.64%, compared to Garuda and Sekoci. However, the application of an average 43% rafaksi has led to a decrease in farmers' income, making cassava farming unprofitable. In the case of Adira 4, cash costs accounted for 76.24% of total revenue, while total costs reached 108.18% of total revenue, resulting in a net loss of IDR 1,923,072. A similar pattern was found in the Garuda and Sekoci varieties, where the proportion of total costs exceeded revenue, causing total income loss. This income loss indicates the need for a review of the base price policy and the implementation of a lower, fairer rafaksi standard to improve farmers' welfare, taking into account the potential benefits of high-starch cassava varieties.