PRRI makes progress in the ANRPC Caucus Meeting of its active participation in Bangkok, Thailand (June 5-7, 2024). There were exciting developments emerging as representatives from 13 major rubber-producing countries, including the Philippines, gathered under the banner of the Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC) for the purpose of promoting fair prices for natural rubber, thereby creating a sustainable growth, market leadership, and the well-being of rubber farmers. Among the pertinent issues is the possibility of creating a Joint Committee (JC) to oversee the fair pricing of rubber or drafting a formal agreement, either a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) or a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This aims to address the prevalent issue of securing fair pricing for the crucial TSR 20 rubber grade on a free-on-board (FOB).
PRRI, through its leaders, considers its participation in the recent ANRPC Caucus Meeting a significant opportunity and privilege. Representing the voices of our dedicated rubber farmers at this international gathering of key players was a great honor. The task of securing fair prices and fostering collaboration within the global rubber industry is a complex one. However, PRRI is confident in the leadership of our representatives and their commitment to the well-being of our rubber farmers, whom we view as valued partners.
During the AMC Internal Stakeholders’ Meeting, PRRI Executive Director, Cheryl L. Eusala, Ph.D. actively supported and agreed upon the proposed price range at the FOB level during the discussions. This initiative not only benefits Filipino farmers but also serves as a potential model for other rubber-producing countries seeking to improve the livelihoods of their agricultural workforces.
A key topic that was discussed during the ANRPC meeting was the preparation for the Livelihood Rubber Price (LRP) initiative, a promising domestic program for the Philippine rubber industry. Scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2025, the LRP will establish a minimum guaranteed price for rubber produce. This program directly addresses the challenges faced by Filipino rubber farmers struggling with income instability caused by persistent low market prices.
The meeting’s outcomes offer a promising future. The potential addition of Cote d’Ivoire as a new member, collaborative efforts on securing fair prices, and joint product development ventures between Thailand and the Philippines all point towards a more significant role for the ANRPC in the global rubber landscape. Ultimately, this could lead to a much-needed boost in the livelihoods of millions of rubber farmers worldwide.
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– JULIUS BIOLANGO
