Competitiveness of Rice Production in Thailand

Thailand is one country that has successfully developed its agricultural sector. Known for its good agricultural product, Thailand is an exporter of products such as rice, cassava, and maize. Indeed, the agricultural sector is the “backbone” of this country, with rice as the main crop. As one of the largest rice exporters in the world, Thailand should strive to maintain its rice competitiveness in order to compete in the global market era.

From the results of the study regarding the agricultural competitiveness of rice production in Thailand, this book discusses several issues, which include farmers' access to agricultural inputs. What follows is a description of supply and distribution of rice seeds, agrochemicals, agricultural machinery, and the access of farmers to acquire financial support. In the role of a research institute, we appreciate the significant contribution of rice research and development in Thailand as one key to success for increasing rice competitiveness in the international market. In addition, this paper explains the standardization of post-harvest systems, referring to Thai GAP and Thai GMP that encompass all aspects of rice production from harvest to distribution.