ANALYSIS OF TOMATO FARMER INCOME INCREASING STRATEGIES IN KARO DISTRICT, INDONESIA

Abstract

The income of tomato farmers in Karo Regency has decreased due to internal and external factors in tomato farming. This study aims to identify internal factors consisting of the strengths and weaknesses of tomato farmers in Karo Regency and external factors that can be used as opportunities and threats for tomato farmers in Karo Regency, so as to formulate appropriate strategies to increase the income of tomato farmers in Karo Regency. The research method uses SWOT analysis and QSPM to analyze strategies to increase the income of tomato farmers in Karo Regency. The results show that the internal factors that become strengths in increasing the income of tomato farmers are having regular customers, extensive cultivation land, available human resources, experienced farmers, fertile land and for weaknesses in internal factors, namely low-educated workforce, the practice of seeds counterfeit, low technological adaptation, limited capital, lack of initiative in seeking market information, using simple equipment. Factors that become opportunities in increasing the income of tomato farmers are increased demand for tomatoes, product diversification, support from extension agents and agricultural services, broad consumers from all segments, favorable natural conditions. Some others include declining tomatoes, pest and disease attacks and unstable seasonal changes. Alternative strategies in increasing the income of tomato farmers in Karo Regency are adding business to farmer households, optimizing existing potential, providing training, improving the quality of human resources, increasing production, increasing post-harvest processing, reducing production costs, supporting ICT (Information and Communication Technology) growth, provide capital loans, and maintain the quality of tomatoes.

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