To improve the post-pandemic economy, the Government of Jombang Regency (Pemkab) through the Department of Agriculture (Disperta) explores the potential of the region, one of which is using taro leaves as a substitute for tobacco. Disperta Jombang even dispatched the first export of taro leaves in the chopped form to Australia, amounting to 7.5 tons, Wednesday 11/02/2022). Head of Disperta Jombang, Muh Rony explained, to recover post-pandemic economic growth, the government is trying to increase the volume of exports by the existing potential. "And in Jombang with the presence of these clear taro leaves, which are then sold in foreign markets, this may be a blessing in itself," said Rony after the departure of the first export of taro leaves at the Kabuh District Office. He admitted, clear taro leaves currently have a selling value abroad because there is zero nicotine implementation in several developed countries, such as America to Europe. "For this reason, we as the technical service will continue to oversee the cultivation process, including facilitating the process of chopping taro leaves," he explained.

He explained the area of land provided for farmers to plant these clear taro leaves is tens of hectares. It is located in the Districts of Kabuh and Wonosalam.
"In Wonosalam there are about 80 hectares, and in Kabuh there are about 45 hectares. In addition, there are also in Sumobito and Mojoagung," he added. Rony said, to plant clear taro leaves is very easy, namely by planting taro tubers. And within a few months can be harvested.
Furthermore, after growing three leaves about 30 centimeters high. After 6 months can be harvested. The advantage is, after being harvested, two weeks can grow new leaves," he said.

Source: https://jatimnow.com/baca-51869-keren-jombang-ekspor-perdana-daun-talas-ke-australia