agriculture
- Business News
Thai trial shows railway’s agricultural haul potential
A recent trial by Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI) has demonstrated the vast potential of railway logistics for long-distance transportation of agricultural products. The experiment resulted in a 13-fold reduction of carbon emissions compared to air freight, as well as significant cost savings. Running the trial with high-efficiency mobile refrigerated container trains, TSRI transported the Royal Project’s fresh produce…
- Thailand News
Singkhon border crossing to become permanent checkpoint for agriculture trade
Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Singkhon border crossing, a vital point of trade between Thailand and Myanmar, is set to become a permanent checkpoint, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The move is anticipated to enhance the transportation and trading of agricultural goods, including fisheries products. Minister Thamanat Prompow highlighted the need for the Singkhon border crossing, currently only accessible…
- Business News
BAAC to back 50,000 tech-savvy farmers with 55 billion baht
The Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), a state-owned entity, outlined an ambitious plan to foster a new breed of technologically adept farmers. The bank intends to support 50,000 young, smart farmers over the next five years, offering low-interest loans that total 55 billion baht (US$1.5 billion). BAAC president, Chatchai Sirilai, announced the project’s key objective following a memorandum…
- Thailand News
Decade-old Thai rice from controversial scheme found fresh
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai conducted a rice inspection following an invitation from the Association of Thai Agricultural Product Surveyors. The association, keen to dispel allegations regarding the quality of rice held under the contentious rice-pledging scheme, orchestrated an eventful visit to warehouses owned by Poonpon Trading Ltd and Kittichai Ltd in different districts of the northeastern…
- Business News
Thai industries federation urges stringent checks on imported produce
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) urged the government to intensify scrutiny of agricultural imports, particularly fruits and vegetables, from neighbouring nations and China, following the detection of pesticide contamination in some produce. Kriengkrai Thiennukul, the FTI chairman. stated that Thailand continues to import fruit and vegetables contaminated by chemicals banned in many countries. He emphasised the need for a…
- Business News
Thailand urged to diversify agricultural exports to boost value
A study by the Commerce Ministry urges agricultural businesses to widen their export markets to mitigate risk and boost the value of food products and processing. The advice follows findings that the majority of export-oriented agricultural goods are commodities or those with only rudimentary processing. Deputy Commerce Minister Napintorn Srisunpang disclosed that agricultural and agro-industrial products accounted for 17.3% of…
- Thailand News
Thai skies to sparkle: 30 aircraft to blitz pollution and sizzle summer heat
In a move to combat air pollution and beat back the scorching summer heat, Thailand is unleashing a squadron of 30 aircraft across the nation. These aerial warriors aren’t armed with missiles but with the power to summon rain itself, in a bid to douse the flames of pollution and ease the parched lands. Artificial rain, also known as cloud…
- Food
How AI revolutionises your food: From farm to fork
In the fast-paced world of food innovation and production, Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a game changer. From enhancing the quality of your morning cereal to ensuring the sustainability of your favourite snacks, AI’s role is both profound and transformative. Imagine a world where food waste is significantly reduced, and every product on your plate…
- Business News
Thai Department of Commerce collaborates to stabilise fruit market
The Department of Commerce, in collaboration with global fruit importers, is examining the futures market and preparing to roll out an additional 35 initiatives. These initiatives are aimed at promoting Thai agricultural products, to maintain price stability throughout the year. Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai yesterday presided over a business-matching project’s launch. This project, centred on fresh and processed fruit and…
- Thailand News
New agricultural land reform policy to implement buffer zones
Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thamanat Prompow is set to propose a new agricultural land reform policy tomorrow. The policy seeks to establish a buffer zone between forest reserves and agricultural land, with the explicit specification that this zone will not be allocated to individual farmers. This comes in the wake of an ongoing dispute between the Agricultural Land Reform Office…
- Thailand News
Thailand aims for top ASEAN agricultural exporter with new FTAs
A Government of Thailand spokesperson revealed plans to enhance economic cooperation and attract foreign trade and investment, which could propel the Thai nation to the top of the agricultural export rankings in ASEAN through the implementation of Free Trade Agreements (FTA). The spokesperson for the Thai Prime Minister’s Office, Chai Watcharong, disclosed Prime Minister and Finance Minister Srettha Thavisin’s determination…
- Thailand News
Thailand’s DNP refutes Khao Yai National Park farmland claims
Claims to farmland within Khao Yai National Park were strongly refuted yesterday by Thailand’s Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP). This came in response to a recent announcement by the Agricultural Land Reform Office (Alro) that approximately 2,933 rai of land within Pak Chong district, a Unesco World Heritage site area, have been designated as agricultural land…
- Thailand News
Concerns over Khao Yai National Park land allocation plans
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) has strongly opposed the Agricultural Land Reform Office’s (ALRO) plan to allocate portions of Khao Yai National Park to farmers. The authorities are concerned about the encroachment of agricultural practices into fertile forest zones. Chaiwat Limlikitaksorn, the director of the National Parks Office, expressed grave concerns after learning that nearly…
- Business News
Thai processed sugar exports to China surge due to ACFTA
Thai exports to China, particularly those of processed sugar items including syrup, artificial honey, and various sweeteners, have seen a significant surge, courtesy of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA). Over the past decade, Thailand has witnessed a yearly growth of 145% in processed sugar exports to China, as reported by the Foreign Trade Department. Ronnarong Phoolpipat, the director-general of…
- Thailand News
Thai farmers advised against off-season rice due to climate change
Climate change and the moderate effects of the El Niño phenomenon have led to a reduction in Thailand’s water supply, prompting authorities to advise second-crop farmers against the cultivation of off-season rice. The lower water levels have necessitated a revised water distribution plan to support existing plantations where crops are yet to be harvested. Krongsak Songraksa, Deputy Director-General of the…
- Business News
Thailand’s BAAC to launch blockchain-based e-commerce platform for farmers
The Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) in Thailand announced its plans to establish an e-commerce platform. The platform will be built on the foundation of blockchain technology to ensure transparency and fairness, according to 42 year old Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. The deputy finance minister highlighted the prevalent issue in the country where the majority of profits…
- Thailand News
Thailand’s agriculture ministry seeks triple budget increase to boost farmer income
A request for a substantial budget increase to 411 billion baht for the upcoming fiscal year has been put forward by Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The proposed budget, which is over three times larger than the previous year’s allocation, aims to triple the income of farmers within the next four years. Chantanon Wannakejohn, serving as the Secretary-General to…
- Thailand Travel
Thailand’s Best-Kept Secret: Agro-Tourism
In a unique collaboration, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives have spotlighted this rich aspect of Thai culture. Since August 2015, they’ve been promoting agro-tourism, offering you a chance to dive into Thailand’s rural life. Imagine wandering through lush landscapes, engaging with local communities, and experiencing the authentic Thai way of life—all while…
- Guides
Sustainable farming practices in Thailand
In your journey through the evolving landscape of sustainable farming in Thailand, it’s crucial to understand the trends shaping agriculture today. One significant shift is the embracing of sustainable agriculture as a necessity, not just a choice. This movement is driven by the imperative need for environmental preservation and the adoption of ecosystem principles, which aim to create a balance…
- Cannabis
Greening the Thai cannabis industry: Environmental effects
The legal landscape surrounding cannabis in Thailand has undergone significant transformations, opening new avenues for its cultivation and consumption. As you navigate through the complexities of these changes, understanding the specifics of how cannabis will be grown and the legalities involved is crucial. This section explores the agricultural practices and legal frameworks shaping the future of cannabis in Thailand. How…
- Thailand News
Agriculture chief defends against bribe claims in corruption case
The Director-General of the Department of Rice staunchly defended actions taken in a controversy involving a well-known activist, Srisuwan Janraya, who was offered money to halt corruption complaints. At 1pm today, January 30, at the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Natthakit Khanthip addressed the allegations that a consultant to the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives suggested that the director-general’s wife…
- Thailand News
Srisuwan arrested for alleged extortion in police crackdown operation
Police arrested prolific petitioner Srisuwan Janya at his Pathum Thani home yesterday for an alleged extortion case. Natthakit Khongthip, director-general of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives’ Rice Department, claimed Srisuwan demanded 3 million baht to keep quiet about supposed irregularities in the department’s projects. Natthakit, fearing for his reputation, negotiated the amount down to 140,000 baht, agreeing to an…
- Phuket News
Phuket’s fertile future: Urban agriculture sprouts to secure sustenance and resilience
The bustling tourist hub of Phuket in Thailand is witnessing a significant shift towards urban agriculture. The Phuket Provincial Agriculture Office embarked on a mission to reinforce food security and boost community resilience amid times of crisis. The call to action was delivered at a gathering graced by Phuket Governor, Sophon Suwannarat. Phuket Agriculture Chief Charatsri Khamphirasingh underscored the urgent…
- Chiang Mai News
Thai prime minister tours royal projects to boost agriculture sector
The Prime Minister of Thailand embarked on a tour of royal initiative projects in Chiang Mai on Saturday. PM Srettha Thavisin’s visit forms part of a broader government strategy to boost the nation’s agricultural sector and strengthen farming communities. Accompanying the prime minister were high-ranking state officials and leaders from the private sector. The entourage comprised Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Thai…
- Thailand News
Grim reality of Thai agricultural worker’s life in South Korea revealed
Working as an agricultural labourer in South Korea may not be as pleasant as one might think, according to a Thai worker’s review posted online today. The worker, Abhisit began his job in South Korea on June 29, 2023, after passing the Department of Labour’s E-9 agricultural visa exam. Abhisit worked in a mixed vegetable farm, primarily cultivating high-value crops…
- Business News
Rice rivalry: India’s export ban grains optimism for Thai prices
The ongoing ban on white rice exports in India is bolstering the optimism of local shippers that Thai rice prices will remain relatively high during the first half of this year. Chookiat Ophaswongse, the honorary president of the Thai Rice Exporters Association, expressed that global market prices are likely to stay around US$600 per tonne, a rate not seen in…
- Thailand News
Thai farmers to be granted 25,000 title deeds
Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow confirmed the distribution of 25,000 land title deeds to farmers across the nation. The spectacle kicks off on January 15, with a grand launch at the centre for the promotion and development of additional careers outside of agriculture in Ayutthaya’s Bang Sai district. Leading the ceremony is none other than Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. During the…
- Thailand News
Nakhon Pathom: Special Forces seize 69 tonnes of illegal pork
The Special Forces unit of Phraya Nakhon Ratchasima seized 69 tonnes of illegal pork yesterday, January 5, and more than half of the transportation permits were found to be counterfeit. Thanadol Suwannarath, the deputy commander of the unit, disclosed that the raid took place in a cold storage facility in Nakhon Pathom province following a tip-off. The Ministry of Agriculture…
- Thailand News
Despite conflict, Thai labourers eye Israel’s farmlands for higher wages
The escalating conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, hasn’t deterred Thai labourers from seeking employment in Israel’s farmlands. Their decision to remain or return to work in Israel is primarily driven by the substantial financial benefits they can accrue. Satid Prom-u-narot, 37 years old, highlighted the stark disparity in wages between the two countries. “On average, I…
- Thailand News
Thailand and China unveil game-changing cargo link
Thailand and China have launched a direct cargo rail link, whisking farm-fresh delights straight from Nong Khai to the bustling metropolis of Chongqing via Laos. Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thamanat Prompow, a key player in this historic venture, flagged off the inaugural Thai train loaded with the jewel of Thai agriculture – dried longan. This marks the commencement of the…
- Thailand News
Rice and shine: Thai government dishes out financial aid to farmers through BAAC
The Thai government initiated a financial aid programme for rice farmers, channelling through the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC). Rice farmers will receive 1,000 baht per rai, capped at 20 rai (32,000 squared metres) per household, or a maximum of 20,000 baht per household. This scheme, part of the Rice Farmer Management and Quality Improvement project for the…
- Business News
BAAC plans to boost export of high-value agricultural goods
Chatchai Sirilai, the president of the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), stated that the bank will augment its role as a facilitator for the export of high-value agricultural goods. This move is aimed at increasing income for farmers. The BAAC’s strategy is focused on nurturing a new generation of farmers who concentrate on producing quality products, rather than…
- Business News
Crop déjà vu: Critics dub gov’s agri-reform a rerun of past plans
The government’s current measures to reform the nation’s agricultural sector, particularly rice farming, are largely seen as reiterations of former strategies, declared industry commentators. They suggest that any budget-based support should come with certain stipulations. Aat Pisanwanich, an international economics lecturer, after evaluating these measures, observes that the central policy appears to be a three-year debt suspension for farmers, with…
- Thailand News
Uthai Thani resident scoops 60 million baht in BAAC Gold Bag lottery
A lucky resident of Ban Khok, Uthai Thani, became the latest millionaire after winning the first prize in the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) Gold Bag lottery. The winner walked away with a staggering 60 million baht in the first draw of the lottery. The BAAC Thailand Facebook page announced the news yesterday. The post congratulated the new red-label…
- Business News
BAAC organises Japan trip to boost Thai farmers’ global market competitiveness
The Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), led by its president, Chatchai Sirilai, has organised an overseas business study trip to Fukuoka, Japan, from October 20 to October 24. The initiative aimed to aid small-scale Thai farmers and farming businesses by enhancing their business efficiency and competitiveness in the global market. The trip provided an opportunity for knowledge exchange…
- Thailand News
Farmers’ ally: Captain Thamanat vows to sow out smuggling of agricultural goods
Captain Thamanat Prompow, the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, yesterday announced a crackdown against the smuggling of agricultural products into Thailand. The illicit activity, Thamanat points out, has led to a decrease in the price of locally produced goods, negatively affecting the livelihood of local farmers. The widespread agricultural smuggling of frozen pig carcasses, in particular, has been detrimental to…
- Business News
Grain gain: Thailand’s rice exports sprout an impressive 12% surge
The Commerce Ministry reported a significant increase in Thailand’s rice exports. Data reveals an 11.91% rise in exports from January to August 29, compared to the same duration last year. During this period, Thailand managed to export a hefty 5.29 million metric tonnes of rice. Despite the impressive rice export figures, the agricultural sector in Southeast Asia has been grappling…
