Kenaf (*Hibiscus cannabinus*) is a fast-growing annual plant cultivated primarily for its strong fiber, with major production centered in countries such as India, Bangladesh, China, and Thailand. Historically, kenaf has been grown for thousands of years, with its origins traced to Africa, where it was used for food and fiber. By the 19th and 20th centuries, kenaf farming spread to Asia, particularly in India and Bangladesh, where it became an important crop for making ropes, sacks, and twine, often as an alternative to jute. In recent decades, China and Thailand have expanded kenaf cultivation, leveraging its environmental benefits and versatility in producing paper, textiles, and bio-composites. Today, these countries lead global production, while research and interest in kenaf continue to grow worldwide due to its renewable nature and potential in sustainable industries.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | India | 101,828 |
2 | Russia | 49,763 |
3 | China | 25,729 |
4 | Cuba | 11,821 |
5 | Chile | 9,525 |
6 | Congo | 7,696 |
7 | Malaysia | 3,815 |
8 | Mozambique | 3,741 |
9 | Indonesia | 3,333 |
10 | Brazil | 2,928 |
11 | Thailand | 2,096 |
12 | Nigeria | 1,509 |
13 | Mali | 1,436 |
14 | El Salvador | 1,005 |
Data from United Nations FAO Stat