Current status of cultivation, processing, and development potential of betel nut (Areca catechu L.) in Dak Lak province
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Current status of cultivation, processing, and development potential of betel nut (Areca catechu L.) in Dak Lak province
Abstract
This study surveyed 200 farmers, collectors, and processors across five key betel nut–growing regions of Dak Lak Province (Buon Ma Thuot, Buon Ho, Krong Nang, Krong Bong, and Cu Kuin) to assess the current status of cultivation practices, harvesting, processing, and development potential of Areca catechu L. The results indicate that areca nut is emerging as a promising commercial crop in the Central Highlands, with an average yield of 22.8 kg per tree per year, a harvest period starting 4–5 years after planting, and an average planting density of 2,536 trees per hectare, which exceeds the commonly recommended density of 1,400 trees per hectare. Three dominant varieties were identified, namely Cau Dai (49.5%), Cau Vu Bo (18.3%), and Cau Tron (13.8%), with Cau Dai being the most widespread due to its stable productivity and good adaptability. Buon Ma Thuot (26.5 kg/tree), Krong Nang (24.5 kg/tree), and Cu Kuin showed the highest yield potential owing to favorable red basalt soils and climatic conditions. Nevertheless, production remains fragmented and small-scale, with a lack of concentrated production zones, standardized cultivation and processing protocols, and modern processing technology, while more than 95% of dried products are exported through informal cross-border trade to China, exposing farmers and processors to high price and market risks. The study recommends adjusting planting density, establishing concentrated raw material zones, standardizing technical procedures, and investing in value-added processing technologies to improve product quality and economic returns, thereby promoting sustainable development of the areca nut value chain in Dak Lak Province.
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