Abstract
In this study, with respect to importing the palm sugar of Arenga pinnata from Indonesia to Japan as an important non-timber forest product (NTFP) for sustainable forest conservation, we investigated the situation regarding quality management in the local production process, the income improvement effect on producers, and the possibility of its commercialization in Japan. In the Banteng and West Java provinces of Java Island, the producer’s income per household was found to be the equivalent of 10,000–30,000 yen per month when using traditional tools and a heat sterilization process, and when taking measures to prevent dust and insects from getting into the sugar. In consideration of local wholesale prices, as determined by interviews with the processors, the selling price per kilogram in Japan was determined to be around 2,000 yen. In addition to this research, a new business model to increase demand for this sugar in Japan was examined by holding a seminar. We concluded that the model would prove effective in marketing the product as a high-priced rare sugar in confectionery shops under private management. Arenga palm sugar is less sweet and also less sour than brown cane sugar, with a strong smoky and black honey flavor, according to a gustatory test conducted on 61 female university students. In order to promote its distribution in the Japanese market, it will be necessary to leverage this distinctive taste and flavor; establish methods to reduce and remove contaminants, especially ash particles; and raise the awareness of consumers with respect to the significance of NTFPs.
