Rattan production cut.

Forestry Minister Zulkifli Hasan said rattan production has been cut to prevent surplus in domestic supply. This year, production may not exceed 143,000 tons by a number of producing regions. West Sulawesi, for example is allowed only to produce up to 14,000 ton and replanting is made for every tree cut in 8 years. The government bans exports of raw rattan. Sulawesi and Kalimantan are the main producers of rattan, but most consumers mainly furniture makers are located in Java. Trade Minister Gita Wirjawan said the ban on raw rattan exports has boosted exports of finished rattan products. In January to February 19, 2012, exports of rattan-based commodities were valued at US$27 million. Last year exports were valued at US$110 million. Industry Minister M. S. Hidayat said he has asked surveyor company PT Sucofindo to speed up the process of verification that the process would not delay supply of rattan raw material to processing industries in the country. Meanwhile, foreign trade director general Deddy Saleh said he is optimistic exports of rattan-based products would reach at least US$250 million this year. Hidayat said the industry ministry is studying the feasibility of developing rattan production center in Mamuju, West Sulawesi and rattan design innovation center in Palu. In addition, the government is preparing transmigration program for 50 families of rattan crafters from Cirebon in Java to Katingan.