Journal title Agro Bali : Agricultural Journal Initials AB Abbreviation Agro. Bali. Agric. J. Frequency 3 issues per year | March, July, and November DOI Prefix 10.37637 E-ISSN 2655-853X (online) Editor-in-chief Jhon Hardy Purba Publisher Faculty of Agriculture, Panji Sakti University ReviewersCredits This journal uses ReviewerCredits to recognize reviewers and track review contributions. Indexed by Scopus, Sinta, Dimensions, Garuda, Crossref, WorldCat, BASE, Google Scholar, etc. Agro Bali : Agricultural Journal is an open-access and peer-reviewed scientific journal that contains research articles, theoretical studies, and scientific papers on agriculture, including agrotechnology and agribusiness, published in March, July, and November. The journal was submitted to Scopus on April 2, 2025, and after a thorough evaluation, was officially accepted for inclusion in Scopus on September 15, 2025, becoming available on scopus.com on November 1, 2025. The journal has been accredited by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia with a decree number 204/E/KPT/2022, ranked in Science and Technology Index 2 (Sinta-2). Since volume 7 number 3, 2024 this journal has published full-text articles in English only, after publishing full-text articles in Indonesian and/or English in previous issues.
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Comparative Effects of Soil and Foliar Iron Application on Nutrient Dynamics in Green Gram
Iron deficiency is a common limitation in alkaline soils, restricting nutrient uptake and yield in pulse crops such as green gram (Vigna radiata L.). To compare various iron fertilization regimes and their effects on soil properties, nutrient dynamics, and nutrient uptake in green gram, a field experiment was conducted from March to July 2024 at SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana. The experimental design was a randomized block trial with three replicates because the experiment comprised seven treatments, including the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF: 20:40:40 kg N: P₂O: K₂O ha-1) and soil and foliar applications of FeSO4. It was found that foliar application of FeSO4 significantly enhanced soil fertility and plant nutrient status compared to soil application. The highest soil organic carbon was recorded at 30 and 45 DAS with the RDF + foliar spray of 0.6% FeSO4 (0.41% and 0.40%, respectively), an increase of about 32-35% compared with the control (0.31-0.30%). Likewise, the available nitrogen content increased by 189.12 kg ha-1 to 225.08 kg ha-1 (about 19 percent improvement) under the same treatment. Nutrient levels in plant tissues also increased significantly, and nitrogen content in the straw and grain improved by 40-120 percent and 1.82-3.38 percent, respectively, compared to the control. The experiment shows that foliar iron application is more effective than soil-applied iron in improving nutrient status and plant uptake in alkaline soil. The originality of the study lies in its comparison of soil under staged foliar iron fertilization and its effects on the dynamics of soil nutrients, micronutrient availability, and nutrient use efficiency in the growth of green grass on alkaline soils.
Copyright (c) 2026 Adarsh Pandey, Karmnath Kumar, Dr. Shakti Om Pathak, Nilotpal Das, Dr. Atin Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Stem-Cutting Propagation of Adlay (Coix lacryma-jobi L.): Effects of Genotype and Stalk Portion on Vegetative Growth
Adlay production is constrained by its long seed-propagation maturity period, underscoring the need for alternative propagation methods. This study evaluated the effects of genotype and stem-cutting position on vegetative propagation of adlay. The experiment was conducted from November 2023 to January 2024 under screenhouse conditions at the BISU Bilar Campus, using a 2 × 3 factorial design with three replications in a completely randomized design. Two adlay genotypes (Gulian and Kiboa) and three stalk portions (basal, middle, and upper) were evaluated. Kiboa showed greater sprouting (1.78) and tillering performance (3.00) than Gulian. Stalk portion influenced all vegetative traits measured (p < 0.001). Basal cuttings exhibited the highest sprouting percentage (35%) and number of sprouts (4.00), while middle cuttings produced taller plants (155.34 cm) with more leaves (10.00), nodes (6.00), and tillers (5.00). These findings confirm that stem cuttings, particularly from the basal and middle portions, offer a practical and efficient method for rapid, uniform adlay propagation, supporting breeding programs, germplasm conservation, and improved availability of planting material for farmers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jay Ryan Soliva Galve, Melvin John Abulag Nalasa, James Victor Rana Aradilla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Empowering Farmers through Smart Pest Management: A Field-Based Study on AI-IoT System Adoption in Pendurthi Mandal, Andhra Pradesh, India
The income stability and agricultural productivity of small and marginal farmers in developing countries are affected by pest infestations. Severe crop losses in India are due to increased pesticide use, limited pest-detection technologies, and restricted access to real-time advisory services. Emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Large Language Models (LLMs) offer significant opportunities to develop adaptive, farmer-centric pest management systems. This study is based on a two-component mixed method approach: (1) A large scale field study of 1000 farmers in five villages in Pendurthi Mandal, Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh, India, to assess the practice of pest control, the economic burden of pests, technology awareness and readiness for adoption of technology; and (2) A simultaneous large scale field test of a low cost AI-IoT device that includes an ESP32-CAM controller, a YOLOv8 deep learning algorithm, and a vernacular Telugu language LLM advisory engine - a new development in vernacular LLM integration tested in the field at a large scale. The survey results revealed 84% pest infestation, heavy reliance on chemical pesticides (66%), growing smartphone penetration (63%), and strong willingness to adopt (76%) when supported by government subsidies and localized AI interfaces. The field testing results verified 94% system uptime and high confidence levels of 0.87-0.94 for pest detection across four major rice pest species. This study combines findings from a survey with a concurrent field trial, confirming the efficacy of affordable pest detection and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Copyright (c) 2026 James Stephen Meka, Venkateswarlu Ponnam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Morphophysiological Responses of Pakchoi in Variations of Watering and Growing Media in Vertical Fertigation System
Pakchoi productivity in dryland areas is often constrained by water availability and suboptimal nutrient management strategies. However, the combined role of organic growing media, boron supply, and controlled irrigation in a vertical-wick fertigation system under dryland conditions remains underexplored. This study aimed to assess the presence of boron in compost- and biochar-modified growing media under water stress, which affects the morphophysiology of pakchoi in dryland conditions, using a vertical system with wick fertigation. The study was arranged in a split-plot design with two watering frequencies and a growing media formulation based on soil, compost, and biochar, with added boron. The results showed that watering frequency and boron-based growing media significantly affected leaf number, shoot and root biomass, root characteristics, and chlorophyll content. Consistent daily watering resulted in better growth and yield compared to watering every other day. Optimized combinations of regular irrigations and appropriate boron application enhanced biomass accumulation and chlorophyll content, indicating improved plant performance. These findings indicate that regular water management through a wick fertigation system, combined with organic growing media formulation and appropriate boron dosage, can significantly enhance pakchoi growth and productivity in dryland conditions. Importantly, this study provides a practical and scalable strategy for improving vegetable production under water-limited conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Wilda Lumban Tobing https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Effect of Sonic Bloom Treatment on the Growth of Green Mustard and Pak Choi
Productivity of green mustard (Brassica juncea L.) and pak choi (Brassica rapa L.) is often constrained by suboptimal cultivation practices. Sound-based stimulation, such as Sonic Bloom, offers a novel approach to enhance plant growth, yet comparative evidence across sound types remains limited. This study evaluated the effects of Qur’anic recitation and classical music on the growth and yield of both crops. A Randomized Block Design with a non-factorial time-series approach was implemented from July to September 2022. Two plant species (J1: green mustard; J2: pak choi) and three treatments were tested: S0 (control), S1 (Qur’anic recitation), and S2 (classical music). Sound exposure (90 dB, 20–14,500 Hz) was applied daily for 2 hours, beginning 7 days after planting and continuing until harvest (24 DAP). Growth parameters and biomass were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD (5%). Classical music (S2) significantly enhanced early growth, with plant height increases reaching 102.08% in green mustard and 91.16% in pak choi (6–12 DAP). Green mustard consistently outperformed pak choi across stages (77.88% vs 60.92% at 12–18 DAP; 42.07% vs 27.72% at 18–24 DAP). Leaf number increased up to 44.12%, and leaf area reached 208.74% under S2. Qur’anic recitation (S1) showed stronger effects at later stages, including higher dry root weight (0.34 g). Chlorophyll content was higher in green mustard but was not significantly affected by treatments. Classical music promotes early vegetative growth, while Qur’anic recitation supports sustained development. Sound-based stimulation represents a promising, sustainable strategy to enhance leafy vegetable productivity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Asritanarni Munar, MUKHTAR YUSUF, Reza Azhari, Dafni Mawar Tarigan, Wan Arfiani Barus, Imam Hartono Bangun https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Risk Management of Monoculture Rice Farming Production in Subak Munggu, Cempaga Village, Bangli Regency, Indonesia
Monoculture rice farming in subak institutions faces multidimensional risks that can threaten production stability and farmers' cash flow, yet empirical prioritization of these risks at the subak institutional level remains limited. This study aims to identify and prioritize risks in monoculture rice farming in Subak Munggu, Balı, using Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) Primary data were collected through structured in-depth interviews and questionnaires from 30 purposively selected farmers supported by relevant secondary sources Qualitative information was used to compile and validate risk events and rak agents, while quantitative S-O-D scoring (1-10) was applied to calculate Risk Prionty Numbers (RPN) and determine priority risks The analysis identified eight risk events (E1-E8) and twelve risk agents (A1-A12) The highest priority rak agent was demand fluctuations (A1) with RPN 490, the only factor classified in the red (intolerable) zone followed by erratic weather and climate (A4 RPN 342), human error in cultivation and input use (A9 RPN 276) declining government subsidies (A10, RPN 224), and pests and diseases (AS RPN 236) Risk mapping indicates that most risks fall within the ALARP category with one dominant intolerable risk that may control overall business stability These findings imply that mitigation should prioritize market-demand rak management and its upstream linkages to seed and input procurement, alongside climate-adaptive practices and institutional strengthening to reduce exposure in monoculture systems in subak.
Anak Agung Ngurah Surya Yuda Pratama Wibawa
Copyright (c) 2026 Ni Luh Prima Kemala Dewi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Farmer Preferences for Organic Fertilizer Attributes: A Conjoint Analysis of Okiagaru Agricoop
The use of organic fertilizers in horticultural farming remains limited due to farmers’ perceptions regarding effectiveness, practicality, and economic considerations. Understanding farmers’ preferences for organic fertilizer attributes is therefore important to support the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. This study aims to analyze the preferences of Okiagaru Agricoop partner farmers toward organic fertilizer attributes in horticultural cultivation in Cianjur Regency, West Java. This study employed a descriptive quantitative approach using conjoint analysis to evaluate farmers’ preferences for different combinations of fertilizer attributes. Data were collected through field observations, questionnaires, and direct interviews with 30 partner farmers selected using purposive sampling. The attributes analyzed included price, quality, effectiveness, and ease of use. The results show that ease of use is the most influential attribute, with the highest importance value (30.397%) and utility estimate (0.542), indicating that farmers strongly prefer fertilizers that are easy to apply in farming activities. This was followed by quality (23.580%), effectiveness (23.093%), and price (22.930%). In addition, most farmers (96.67%) expressed their willingness to process organic waste into organic fertilizer. These findings indicate that practical and functional attributes play a crucial role in farmers’ decisions to adopt organic fertilizers. Therefore, the development and dissemination of organic fertilizer technologies should prioritize ease of application, effectiveness, and affordability to encourage wider adoption among horticultural farmers.
Copyright (c) 2026 Doni Sahat Tua Manalu, Andini Tribuana Tunggadewi, Agief Julio Pratama, Made Gayatri Anggarkasih, Abung Supama Wijaya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Does RSPO Certification Increase Smallholder Oil Palm Income? Evidence from Batanghari, Indonesia
This study analyzes income differentials between independent oil palm smallholders certified by the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and non-certified farmers in Maro Sebo Ilir District, Batanghari Regency, Indonesia. Although certification is promoted as a mechanism to enhance smallholder welfare, empirical evidence remains inconclusive, and few studies examine net income differences disaggregated by plant age under uniform price conditions. Primary data were collected from September 2022 to August 2023 from 60 farmers (30 RSPO-certified and 30 non-certified), categorized into two plant age groups: 11–18 years and 19–26 years. Farm income was calculated as total revenue minus total cost and analyzed using independent-samples t-tests. The results indicate that RSPO-certified farmers achieved higher productivity and income despite incurring higher input costs. Average annual incomes among certified farmers reached IDR 25,600,675 and IDR 25,785,872 per hectare for the 11–18 and 19–26-year groups, respectively, compared with IDR 20,144,977 and IDR 20,766,920 among non-certified farmers. Income differences of approximately 27.1% and 24.2% were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The findings suggest that income gains are primarily associated with improved technical efficiency, intensified input use, and institutional support rather than price premiums, and remain contingent upon local market and institutional conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mirawati Yanita https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Effects of Stem Cuttings and Growing Media on Vegetative Growth of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz)
Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) leaves are widely utilized as a leafy vegetable due to their high protein and bioactive compound content. However, information regarding suitable planting materials and planting media composition for optimizing cassava leaf production is still limited. This study aimed to determine the appropriate planting material and planting media composition to improve the growth and yield of cassava leaf shoots. The experiment was conducted from July-August 2024 at the Experimental Field, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sriwijaya. This study used a factorial Randomized Block Design consisting of two factors: planting material (three levels: upper stem, middle stem, and lower stem) and planting media composition (three levels: soil, soil + cattle manure, and soil + goat manure). Each treatment combination was replicated 3 times, and each experimental unit consisted of 3 plants, resulting in 9 treatment combinations × 3 replications × 3 plants per unit, for a total of 81 plants in the experiment. The results showed that the use of middle-stem cuttings combined with soil + cattle manure resulted in higher sprout growth, number of leaves, SPAD index, and leaf-shoot harvest compared to other treatments. Regular leaf shoot pruning increases the number of edible leaf shoots. The selection of planting material with the right composition of planting medium can sustainably increase the productivity of leafy vegetables in cassava.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fitra Gustiar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Comparative Characterization of Swine Dung Vermicompost Using Two Earthworm Species
Despite the increasing use of earthworms for swine dung management, limited information exists on the comparative functional group composition and heavy metal reduction in vermicomposts produced by Eisenia fetida and Eudrilus eugeniae. This study characterized vermicompost from swine dung produced by Eisenia fetida and Eudrilus eugeniae. Pre-composted swine dung was vermicomposted for three months using 200 mature earthworms per 10 kg of substrate, with three replicates per species in a completely randomized design. The vermicomposts were analyzed for physicochemical properties and functional groups using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). FTIR revealed the presence of -CH₂, -CH₃, -COO-, -C-O, and -C-O-C functional groups, indicating enrichment in organic acids and aliphatic compounds. Pb and Cd concentrations decreased substantially, from 32.0 and 0.07 ppm in raw dung to 7.0 and 0.004 ppm for E. fetida, and 7.0 and 0.008 ppm for E. eugeniae, respectively. These results demonstrate effective heavy metal reduction and functional group enhancement, suggesting that the produced vermicomposts may be suitable for agricultural use, subject to regulatory standards.
Copyright (c) 2026 Michael Omofowa Osunde, Victor Chukwuma Ikeh, Olajumoke Olusola Adesanwo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Thiamine and Foliar Hyponex Improve Acclimatization of Coelogyne rochusseni Plantlets in an NFT System
The Coelogyne rochusseni orchid, an endemic orchid from the island of Sumatra, has beauty and potential for development. The purpose of this research is to explain the physiological mechanisms in increasing the growth and adaptation of orchid plants at the acclimatization stage using the NFT hydroponic system by spraying thiamine and hyponex fertilizer. The design used in this study was a factorial complete randomized design (CRD) consisting of two factors, spraying thiamine and hyponex fertilizer, each treatment consisting of 4 treatment levels, thiamine 0, 1, 2, 3 mg L-1 and hyponex 0,1, 2, 3 mg L-1. 48 total plantlets analyzed and 3 replicates. The results of the research on acclimatization of the Coelogyne rachusseni orchid plantlets can be concluded that spraying thyamin and hyponex fertilizer as a single factor significantly affected all growth parameters, plant height (cm), leaf length (cm), number of roots (n),percentage of plantlets life (%) with an optimal concentration of 2 mg L-1 and in terms of interaction factors significantly affected the parameter of Percentage of live plantlets with an optimal concentration being a combination of 2 mg L-1 thiamine and mg L-1 hyponex.
Copyright (c) 2026 Pebra Heriansyah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Combination of Mucuna bracteata Mulch and NPK-Biofertilizer for Taro (Colocasia esculenta L.) Vegetative Growth
Taro (Colocasia esculenta L.) is a tuber crop with high economic value and potential as an alternative food source, yet its productivity remains low due to declining soil fertility and low organic matter content. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Mucuna bracteata organic mulch combined with reduced NPK fertilizer dosage and biofertilizer application on the vegetative growth of taro. The experiment was conducted at the Experimental Garden of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Riau, from May to August 2025 using a non‑factorial Completely Randomized Design with five treatments and four replications. Observed parameters included leaf stalk length, number of leaves, leaf area, leaf area index, stem diameter, chlorophyll content, soil temperature, and soil moisture. The results indicated that 75% and 50% NPK fertilizer combined with biofertilizer and M. bracteata mulch produced vegetative growth comparable to that of 100% NPK fertilizer across most parameters. The use of M. bracteata mulch and biofertilizer reduced inorganic NPK fertilizer requirements by 25–50% without decreasing vegetative growth.
Copyright (c) 2026 Isna Rahma Dini, Hapsoh Hapsoh, Kezia Eunika Manurung https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Determinants of Muntok White Pepper Export Value to Singapore and the United States
This study analyzes the factors influencing the export value of Muntok White Pepper (MWP) from the Bangka Belitung Islands Province to its main export destinations, Singapore and the United States, from 2010 to 2023. Panel data regression with a fixed effects model is used to combine production, exchange rate, and domestic price variables with export prices and trade policies. The analysis results indicate that production, exchange rate, export price, and non-tariff barriers (NTB) policies play a significant role in affecting export value, while domestic prices do not exert a significant influence. Elasticity analysis results in the exchange rate being the most responsive factor in influencing export value. Methodologically, this study presents the interpretation of panel data regression coefficients based on elasticity to measure export responsiveness, an approach not commonly applied in agricultural trade analysis. Contextually, this study emphasizes the strategic role of Muntok White Pepper as a geographically indicated commodity in supporting the competitiveness of Indonesian spice exports. These findings provide empirical evidence and policy insights for strengthening export resilience through increased production, exchange rate management, and compliance with international trade standards.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lingga Saptarini https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Performance and Determinants of Organic Rice Agribusiness Systems: Evidence from Lampung Province Using PLS-SEM
The performance of agribusiness is linked to the sustainability of organic rice agribusinesses in Lampung Province. This study enriches agribusiness system theory by validating the integration model of subsystems as the main determinant for optimizing the performance of organic rice agribusiness. This study aims to analyze the performance of the organic rice agribusiness system and the factors that determine organic rice agribusiness in Lampung Province. The research was conducted in four districts that implement organic rice farming: South Lampung, East Lampung, Central Lampung, and Pringsewu. The number of respondents was 50 organic rice farmers. Agribusiness performance analysis was measured using a performance index with a percentage ratio calculation between the total actual score and the maximum score to be classified into five categories of performance assessment interval scale. The determinants of agribusiness performance were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that the organic rice agribusiness system showed good performance. Meanwhile, the marketing subsystem is fair, with a performance score of 2.96. Overall, the organic rice agribusiness system showed good performance, with a score of 3.63 or 72.7%. The results of the second analysis indicate that the agribusiness subsystems consisting of the production inputs, farming, post-harvest, marketing, and supporting element subsystems affect the sustainability of organic rice agribusiness. Strengthening market institutions into business units (cooperatives) can serve as aggregators that consolidate harvests in terms of both quantity and quality. This will create economies of scale and improve farmers' bargaining power.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hamim Sudarsono, Dwi Haryono https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Rice Husk Biochar and Foliar Fertilizer Application in Improving Growth and Production of Patchouli Plants (Pogostemon cablin Benth)
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin Benth) is a major essential oil crop widely used in pharmaceutical, perfumery, and aromatherapy industries. Despite Indonesia supplying most of the global demand, productivity and oil quality remain inconsistent across production regions. Although rice husk biochar and foliar fertilizers are individually known to enhance plant growth, their synergistic interaction and optimal combined dosage for patchouli production have not been clearly established, representing an important research gap. This study represents the first experimental attempt to determine the optimal combined dosage of rice husk biochar and foliar fertilizer for improving patchouli growth and oil yield. A Randomized Complete Block Design with two factors (three biochar levels and three foliar fertilizer levels) and 3 replicates was implemented from June to December 2023 in West Sumatra, Indonesia. Significant interaction effects were observed across major growth and yield parameters. The combination of 200 g plant⁻¹ biochar and 1 ml L⁻¹ foliar fertilizer produced the highest biomass accumulation and oil yield compared with other treatments. These findings provide empirical evidence of a synergistic fertilization effect and offer a cost-efficient nutrient management strategy to enhance patchouli productivity under smallholder farming conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Neneng Ratna Purnamasari, Herwita Idris, Rasiska Tarigan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Comparative Effects of Plant and Animal Liquid Organic Fertilizers on Soil Fertility, Nutrient Uptake, and Shallot Yield in Ultisols
Ultisols are characterized by strong acidity, low cation exchange capacity, and high phosphate fixation, which limit nutrient availability and crop productivity. Sustainable fertilization strategies are needed to improve soil quality and reduce dependence on inorganic inputs. A pot experiment was conducted from January to August 2025 using a randomized complete block design with nine treatments and three replications (270 plants). Treatments included combinations of 50% NPK fertilizer with liquid organic fertilizers (LOFs) derived from goat urine, rabbit urine, banana peels, and pineapple peels. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by orthogonal comparison tests. The combined application of LOFs with 50% NPK significantly increased biomass, bulb yield, soil CEC, organic C, total N, available K, and plant N and K uptake (p < 0.01) compared to 100% NPK. Yield increased by 27.7%, while N and K uptake rose by 63.0% and 65.0%, respectively. Rabbit urine LOF showed the highest effectiveness, improving yield by up to 36.0% compared to goat urine. Plant-based LOFs enhanced soil organic C, CEC, and K availability, whereas animal-based LOFs were more effective in increasing soil N. The integration of LOFs with reduced NPK improves soil fertility and shallot productivity under controlled conditions. Rabbit urine LOF at 300 mL L⁻¹ is the most effective treatment. However, field validation is required before large-scale application.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ansyori Ansyori https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Multidimensional Sustainability Assessment of Maize Farming in Tropical Regions
This study addresses a critical gap in understanding the multidimensional sustainability of tropical maize farming by simultaneously evaluating economic, ecological, socio-cultural, institutional, technological, and infrastructural dimensions using a Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) approach. Focusing on West Muna Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, data were collected from 150 farmers and 30 farmer group leaders, complemented by secondary sources. The study aims to assess sustainability status, identify sensitive attributes influencing outcomes, and provide evidence-based guidance for interventions. Results show an overall sustainability index of 52.59%, indicating a “moderately sustainable” system, with economic (73.81%), socio-cultural (72.01%), and ecological (55.07%) dimensions performing better than institutional (42.24%), infrastructure (40.28%), and technological (32.15%) dimensions. Leverage analysis identifies 18 key attributes critical to sustainability, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to strengthen institutional frameworks, improve infrastructure, and accelerate technology adoption. Beyond policy generalization, the findings offer practical insights for stakeholders, including development agencies and farmer organizations, to design context-specific, inclusive, and operational strategies that enhance the long-term sustainability of maize farming in tropical regions.
Copyright (c) 2026 La Ode Muhammad Iksan Yusuf https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Food Business Opportunities in ASEAN: Responding to Rising Demand from a Growing Population
Population growth occurs every year in ASEAN countries. This research aims to determine food business opportunities in response to rising food demand in the increasing population of ASEAN countries. Descriptive methods were used in this research with secondary data from 2017 to 2021. Secondary data came from relevant sources, namely the Global Food Security Index and several others. The data analysis used in this research is contribution analysis and forecasting population growth rates using a logarithmic model. Contribution analysis is obtained by dividing the population of each country in ASEAN (people) by the total population of ASEAN or the world. Meanwhile, the logarithmic growth rate is calculated using this model, assuming that at a certain point in time, the population will approach an equilibrium point. The results of the study show that the population growth rate in most ASEAN countries is at a positive level. With the highest level in Cambodia at 1.6%, followed by the Philippines at 1.4% and Laos at 1.1%. The largest contribution to the population in ASEAN countries is Indonesia, with 40.87 percent. Based on the research results, it was also found that the development of the GFSI value was the highest for Singapore, with an achievement of 83.21. The existence of a growing population creates opportunities for countries with abundant natural resources. This potential exists to fulfil food requirements for countries where food production faces domestic difficulties. Each country can try to maintain its staple food reserves in accordance with the population growth rate so as not to experience food shortages.
Copyright (c) 2026 Wahyu Adhi Saputro https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Utilization of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices Among Rural Farmers in Cross River State, Nigeria
Climate change poses a significant threat to agricultural productivity and food security in Nigeria. This study assessed the utilization of Climate Smart Agricultural (CSA) practices by describing the socio-economic characteristics of rural farmers, identifying their sources of information on CSA, documenting CSA practices currently adopted, and examining the constraints hindering widespread utilization. The key findings are that the majority of respondents were male (59.6%) and youths aged 20–35 years (59.6%), with most being married (59.6%) and having small households (79.8%). Although many earned a modest income (₦150,000–₦250,000 annually). A majority lacked access to credit (82.6%), which is a major limitation to CSA investment. CSA information access shows that Radio/TV (60.6%) was the main information source, and only 21.1% received CSA information from extension agents. CSA adoption and duration indicated that conservation agriculture was the most adopted practice (68.8%), and the majority (62.3%) had adopted CSA practices within the last two years, indicating relatively recent exposure while motivations for CSA adoption were improved yield (58.7%), followed by reduced cost (27.5%) and improved soil fertility (13.8%). The challenges to CSA adoption were a lack of technical knowledge (55.1%) and limited access to credit (27.5%) as dominant constraints. However, education (p=0.045, r=0.654) and sex (p=0.036, r=0.560) were significantly related to adoption of CSA practices. Similarly, social media (p=0.007, r=0.429) had a strong, positive relationship with utilization of CSA practices, while Radio/TV (p=0.062, r=0.401), though not too significant, but the positive value, indicates their importance. Therefore, CSA practices and interventions should be holistic to transform agricultural development.
Copyright (c) 2026 Friday Ogar Idiku https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0