Indonesian Jamu _ Made in Japan
One Japanese cosmetic company holds 24 patents over Indonesian indigenous plants. Must we now pay taxes on the spices in our own backyards?
January 1, 2002
Cabe Jawa. From its name alone, it is clear that this plant is indigenous to Java, or at least Indonesia. Cabe Jawa or Javan chili pepper is also found in Madura, Sumatra and Sulawesi. It is commonly used as an emetic for menstruation or gas.
Cabe Jawa is also an ingredient in certain hair tonics. But anyone attempting to package and market it abroad could face sanctions or even imprisonment. A Japanese cosmetic company already holds the pate
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