Indonesia’s spice farmers have shaped global trade for centuries. Once known as the “Spice Islands,” the archipelago supplied the world with nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon—grown in volcanic soil and passed down through generations. But today, many smallholder farmers struggle to find fair markets for their crops, especially in remote regions like North Sulawesi.
Multi Rempah Sulawesi (MRS) is helping to change that.
Founded in 2012, MRS works directly with over 7,000 farmers across 23 spice-growing communities. Instead of going through collectors or middlemen, farmers sell their harvest directly to MRS, often at a local collection point staffed by people they know. One farmer told us simply, “MRS uses honest scales.” That matters.
Beneficial Returns approved a $250,000 loan to help MRS purchase pepper and vanilla during the peak harvest season. The loan bridges a cash flow gap so MRS can meet a confirmed order from a Japanese buyer and, more importantly, get cash into farmers’ hands quickly.
The impact is tangible: more reliable income, better prices, and a deeper sense of dignity for smallholder growers. It also keeps a centuries-old tradition alive.