An economist assessed the impact of the Anak Krakatau eruption on coffee and cocoa harvests
Quick Look
- The eruption of the Anak Krakatau volcano in Indonesia could negatively affect coffee and cocoa harvests.
- Economist Yolinda Avantika warns that prolonged exposure to the ash could reduce production and affect global prices and supplies.
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Why It Matters
The Anak Krakatau volcano has been active since last Friday, throwing ash to a height of up to 15 kilometers.
JAKARTA, September 7 - RIA Novosti. Coffee and cocoa may be among the crops most sensitive to the effects of the Anak Krakatau volcano eruption in Indonesia, and with prolonged exposure to ash, a reduction in production could affect prices and supplies, Indonesian economist Yolinda Avantika told RIA Novosti.
Anak Krakatau has been erupting continuously since last Friday. It is accompanied by roar, vibrations and fountains of lava. Volcanic ash, according to satellite data, rose to about 15 kilometers above sea level.
"Among the export crops, attention should primarily be paid to coffee and cocoa. Volcanic ash deposited on plants in significant quantities can interfere with normal photosynthesis, damage leaves and ultimately affect crop yields. How severe the consequences will be will depend on the duration of the eruption, the intensity of ash fall and the area of agricultural land affected," Avantika said.
According to her, it is premature to talk about an inevitable rise in prices at this stage. However, if the impact is long-lasting and results in a noticeable reduction in yield, the impact "could extend beyond Indonesia's domestic market."
Open Questions
- What is the current area of agricultural land covered by ash?
- How long will the active phase of the eruption last?
