Integrating Land Suitability and Socio-economic Analysis for Strategic Agriculture Commodities in Tasikmalaya Regency, West Java, Indonesia

Abstract

The varied topography of Tasikmalaya Regency, characterized by its hills, plains, and valleys, significantly influences the agricultural practices that serve as the primary livelihood for 41.13% population.  Nonetheless, the key agricultural commodities such as rice, corn, vegetables, and fruits demonstrate suboptimal economic performance, largely attributable to environmental and socioeconomic constraints.  This research integrates land suitability analysis with economic feasibility assessments to maximize agricultural development within the region.  Utilizing Geographic Information System (GIS)-based land evaluation techniques alongside socioeconomic surveys, we analyzed nine principal commodities across distinct agro-ecological zones, specifically focusing on lowland rice, corn, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, tomatoes, cocoa, cloves, and coffee. The findings suggest that the majority of areas fall within the categorizations of moderately suitable (S2) or marginally suitable (S3), with potential for high suitability (S1) for rice, potatoes, and carrots contingent upon enhancements in soil quality and irrigation practices.  The economic analysis indicates that plantation crops, including cocoa, coffee, and cloves, yield greater profitability compared to horticultural products.  However, limitations related to market access and infrastructure impediments adversely affect overall profitability. Zoning recommendations arise from this analysis, proposing the cultivation of lowland rice in the northern regions, corn and peanuts in central areas, horticulture across the northern to central zones on Red-Yellow Podzolic soils, and the production of cloves and plantation crops in the central to southern regions.  This study underscores the necessity for focused investments in irrigation systems, farmer education, and agro-industrial integration to bolster agricultural productivity and enhance the welfare of farmers in Tasikmalaya Regency.