In Central Luzon and nearby regions, multinational processing firms have an increasing demand for sweet and sour types of tamarind for use in powdered flavoring mixes, seasoning pastes, candies, juices, and other products. However, previous supply chain studies have shown that together with the increasing local and international demand for tamarind, major gaps in value chain and marketing were identified, including insufficient supply, lack of market information, and weak market linkages.
With this situation, the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), through its Agri-Aqua Business Hub (AABH), partnered with the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) through a project to establish a supply chain management system and implement programs for capacity building of tamarind producers.
The project aids in forming and maintaining successful tamarind growers’ associations, bolstering the supply side, while ensuring sustainability of the farm enterprises. It also develops and strengthens the market linkage between tamarind growers and processors by establishing a supply chain hub with PSAU through its Tamarind Research and Development Center to perform supply chain management functions.
By establishing a supply chain hub, direct linkages between growers and processors are created, ensuring stable markets for growers' produce and encouraging value-adding activities. Ultimately, this initiative will lead to job creation, economic activity, and improved socio-economic conditions in target tamarind communities.
During AABH’s field monitoring activity on July 26-27, 2023, PSAU President Anita David expressed her full support for the project’s sustainability. AABH met with selected tamarind associations and processors to validate the study’s findings and secure their commitments to implement the project successfully. The engagements with the processors showcased promising market demand for tamarind products and opportunities for collaboration to strengthen the supply chain. The initial partners identified include large-scale processors like Mama Sita’s (Marigold Manufacturing Corporation) and small-scale processors like Fourteen Eleven Candies and Reymart & A.A, both of which are located in Bulacan. Currently, the project has established two tamarind associations and supported one existing association.
With its dedication to enhancing market linkages and implementing sound strategies, the project holds great potential to support the growth of the tamarind industry in Central Luzon.
Dr. Rogelio Cosio’s team from the Department of Agricultural Business and Economics and Entrepreneurship of PSAU will implement the project until November 30, 2024. It covers key provinces in Central Luzon such as Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Bulacan, Tarlac, Zambales, and Bataan.
Meeting with Mount Arayat Upland Farmers Incorporated Cooperative (MAUFAInc) during the field visit. (Image Credit: SERD, PCAARRD)
Tamarind Farm Visit at Mt.Arayat. (Image Credit: SERD, PCAARRD)
Field Visit and Meeting with Mount Arayat Tamarind Growers Association (MATGA), one of the producer-organizations formed through the project
With the owner of Fourteen Eleven Candies, one of the processors linked by the project to the producers. (Image Credit: SERD, PCAARRD)