Peluang dan Tantangan Pendirian Koperasi Tani Kopi Tri Berdikari

Abstract

This study is motivated by the potential of coffee as a key commodity and the collective enthusiasm of farmers in Cibunar Village, Sumedang, to establish a competitive cooperative institution. The absence of a formal organization has led to individually managed farming practices with limited coordination. Forming a cooperative is considered a strategic effort to strengthen the local economic institution, yet it requires a well-prepared pre-cooperative phase. This research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, using data collection techniques such as observation, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and documentation. The findings indicate that Cibunar Village has around 30 to 40 coffee farmers, with an estimated plantation area of 15–25 hectares and a monthly production of approximately 1 ton of dry beans. Potential businesses that can be integrated into the pre-cooperative include post-harvest processing, product marketing, and agro- tourism. The most suitable type of cooperative is a producer cooperative, as it enables farmers to collectively manage production, processing, and marketing of coffee. The study concludes that the pre-cooperative phase is crucial for social consolidation, institutional literacy, and strengthening collective commitment. Interviews with community figures reveal a readiness to participate if the process is clear and supported. A structured and locally rooted pre- cooperative approach is believed to foster a strong and sustainable rural economic institution.
Keywords: Cooperative, Farmer, Institution, Challenge, Pre-Cooperative