Authors:Pabuayon, I.M
Abstract:There have been considerable chanlges in the Philippine non-wood industries particularly rattan and bamboo. Generally, competitiveness has declined due to raw material constraints and rising labour costs. In particular, rattan production capacity has declined as well as its export shares vis-a-vis wood products. Exports, however, have remained focused on the midrange and high-end segments of the market. Premium quality products are increasingly being sold in local markets due to growing environmental consciousness, rapidly developing ecotourism, and improving purchasing power of the population. The Philippines will continue to be a major world supplier of premium quality bamboo and rattan products. Due to their potential as a significant source of income and livelihood to upland and forest communities and to rural and urban workers, the need for concerted efforts to maintain the competitiveness of these industries in the global market poses a major challenge to stakeholders and policymakers. The elements of a comprehensive and strategic course of action for these industries are as follows: effective raw material supply management; continuing R&D for product, process, and market development; and favourable support systems (policy, institutions, and infrastructure) in the entire value chain from government and private sectors.
Keywords:bamboos; canes and rattans; domestic trade; forest products industries; infrast