Local rubber farmers in Maryland County, Liberia have been hit hard by the recent drop of sales of rubber in the world market. The farmers complain of a worrisome situation as they have had no buyers since they tapped. Over 20 tonnes of tapped rubber are in danger of being spoiled if it is still unbought.
Over 300 farmers are calling on the intervention of the government to encourage buyers to purchase from them. According to the spokesman of the rubber farmers in Maryland County, Rev. Johnny Numbo, the lack of buyers pose a big threat for their livelihood as rubber is the only crop and means they have as farmers in the county.
They are also urging the country’s president to help them find buyers as it is the only way for them to feed their families and send their children to school, added Rev. Numbo.
He also said that sales were good prior to the moratorium placed by the government in 2010 for unprocessed rubber exportation. He also noted that after the moratorium in 2010, they were still able to sell rubber until 2013 when the purchases ceased.
Considering the fact that rubber farming and tapping is the only means of livelihood by these farmers, Rev. Numbo said that the lack of buyers pose a serious economic stagnation.
Rev. Numbo said they want the government to reopen the rubber purchasing stations in Maryland County.
He said Firestone Plantation, Salala, and the Cavalla Rubber Corporation were the frequent buyers of their rubber, but stopped purchasing in 2013 for unknown reasons.
The companies mentioned declined to comment when contacted by FPA. But according to sources, the companies have reduced their purchase orders since the price of commodities dropped on the world market.