Economic Impact of Foot and Mouth Disease on Buffalo Farmers in North Toraja, Indonesia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55927/modern.v4i5.4Keywords:
Buffalo farming, Economic impact, Livestock epidemics, North Toraja, Rural incomeAbstract
Buffalo farming is a key livelihood and cultural activity in North Toraja, Indonesia. The 2022 outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) disrupted this system, with potential implications for household income and ceremonial practices. This study investigates the economic impact of the epidemic by comparing farmers’ income before and during the FMD outbreak.Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews, while supporting information was obtained from local government records. Results show that average net income per farmer declined from IDR 14.5 million to IDR 1.1 million per cycle—a 92.3% decrease. Revenue losses were caused by falling buffalo prices and restricted market access, while production costs increased due to veterinary services and mandatory disinfection practices. Statistical analysis confirmed the income reduction was significant at p<0.001. The findings reveal how livestock epidemics can destabilize rural economies, especially where animals hold both financial and cultural value. This study highlights the urgency of integrated policies that combine animal health management with economic safeguards for smallholder farmers. It contributes to the growing body of research on livestock disease economics and offers context-specific insights for regions with ceremonial livestock practices
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