Model Pendapatan Petani Karet Rakyat di Kabupaten Labuhan Batu

Abstract

The rubber plantation sector is one of the main sources of income for rural communities in Indonesia, particularly in North Sumatra Province. Labuhan Batu Regency is known as one of the regions with considerable potential for smallholder rubber plantations and serves as a primary livelihood for a large portion of its population. However, in recent years, rubber farmers have faced various challenges, such as fluctuations in rubber prices, declining production levels, and limitations in the use of production factors, which have contributed to lower farmers’ incomes. This study aims to analyze the income model of smallholder rubber farmers in Labuhan Batu Regency. The research employs a quantitative method using a multiple linear regression analysis approach. The sample consists of 40 rubber farmers selected through purposive sampling. The research variables include rubber price, land area, production, tapping frequency, and number of labor as independent variables, while farmers’ income is treated as the dependent variable. The results of the study indicate that land area (negative), rubber price, and production (positive) are significant factors influencing the income model of smallholder rubber farmers. Tapping frequency and the number of laborers have a positive effect, but are not significant in the smallholder rubber farmers’ income model. These findings suggest that increasing rubber productivity and stabilizing rubber prices are policy recommendations that can improve the income and welfare of smallholder rubber farmers in Labuhan Batu Regency.