The Evolution of Natural Rubber Harvesting: Advancements from Manual to Mechanical Methods

As an indispensable strategic resource and industrial raw material, the stable supply of natural rubber is vital to the national economy and livelihood. Harvesting, being the core link in the natural rubber production chain, sees its technological evolution directly determining the industry’s efficiency, cost, and sustainability. This paper systematically reviews the complete evolution of natural rubber harvesting technology, tracing its progression from labor- and experience-dependent “manual tapping” to “semi-mechanized harvesting” incorporating mechanical power, then to autonomous “fully-mechanized harvesting” and ultimately towards “intelligent harvesting” featuring smart perception and decision-making. It provides an in-depth analysis of the technological paradigms, core equipment, driving forces, inherent limitations, and economic impacts characteristic of each stage, placing particular emphasis on the critical role played by the integration of agricultural machinery with agronomic practices, cost control, and environmental adaptability in driving technological iterations. Finally, the paper offers prospects for future development directions in light of current technological bottlenecks, aiming to provide theoretical reference and technical pathways for building an efficient, low-impact, and sustainable modern natural rubber industry.