Development Strategies for Artemisia Cultivation in Indonesia

Abstract

Artemisia annua L. is a strategic medicinal plant and the primary source of artemisinin, a key sesquiterpene lactone used in ACT-based malaria therapy. Rising global malaria cases and increasing resistance to conventional antimalarial medicine have driven higher demand for artemisinin in the past two decades. Besides artemisinin, A. annua contains valuable secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and coumarins, which exhibit anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory potential. Although Indonesia has suitable highland agroclimatic conditions for cultivating this species, its utilization remains limited, and the national pharmaceutical sector still depends on imported raw materials from major producers like China, Vietnam, and Madagascar. This study applies a descriptive–qualitative method through a structured literature review to examine global cultivation trends, development prospects in Indonesia, and partnership strategies based on SWOT analysis and change-management concepts. The findings show strong opportunities for A. annua development, supported by market growth, the need for import substitution, and the availability of tropical-adaptive varieties. However, challenges persist, including price fluctuations, extreme climate variability, limited access to high-quality planting material, and low farmer technical capacity. Strengthening technology-based core–plasma partnerships, providing certified seeds, improving cultivation and post-harvest standards, and ensuring supportive government policies are crucial for building a sustainable Artemisia supply chain. With appropriate strategies, Indonesia could become a competitive producer of strategic pharmaceutical raw materials and reduce dependence on imports.