Source Year: 1998

This paper discusses the availability, opportunities and constraints in the development of the rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) industry. Important factors that need to be considered before deciding on changing from rubber to other agriculture crops are also discussed. Results from the analyses indicate that if production of rubberwood for the Seventh Malaysia Plan (1996-2000) could be optimized, the smallholders sector is capable of producing about 2.6 million m3 of rubberwood logs, 394 thousand m3 of sawn timber and almost 1.5 million m3 of charcoal. Neverthless, with less attractive prices, lack of technological know-how and marketing problems, such opportunities may not be at all realised.