Malaysia launches pilot project to increase latex rubber output

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 23 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia launched a latex production incentive pilot project on Monday as it seeks to increase the production of latex rubber.

The incentive aims to help small rubber producers increase their income by switching their production to rubber milk instead of cup lump rubber, according to Malaysian Plantation and Commodities Minister Fadillah Yusof.

Participants from rubber smallholders will receive several incentives that will be evaluated based on the productivity of latex that will be produced at a rate that has been set, he said in a statement.

Latex processing factories that are selected in the pilot project will obtain benefits involving special permission to collect latex with certain conditions and loan of facilities and equipment, he said.

Meanwhile, the pilot project is the preparation by the Malaysian Rubber Board to prepare the industry to implement compliance at the national level, in addition to leading the production of natural rubber and sustainable rubber products.