The production of high-quality oil palm fresh fruit bunches (FFB) is important for palm oil growers, as it significantly impacts their income. The productivity of FFB does not depend solely on yield but also on the quality of FFB to achieve a high oil extraction rate (OER). This study examines the factors influencing the productivity of FFB in the oil palm industry, as well as strategies for improving harvesting practices and yield. The low productivity of FFB can be attributed to various factors, including suboptimal harvesting techniques, labour management challenges, pests and diseases, soil conditions, and smallholder practices. The review highlights the need for a holistic approach that addresses environmental conditions, agronomic practices, harvesting techniques, and technological interventions to improve FFB yields, oil extraction rates, and economic returns. Proper harvesting practices, such as maintaining optimal harvesting intervals, are crucial for maximizing productivity. The FFB need to be graded thoroughly to ensure a high OER. Future research directions include qualitative studies to gain in-depth insights from industry stakeholders and quantitative analyses to assess the effectiveness of interventions aimed at enhancing productivity and profitability in the oil palm industry.
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