Syngenta, in collaboration with key partners, is empowering farmers in Thailand to produce safe and sustainable vegetables under the GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) standard. The initiative also facilitates market access, enhancing farmers' quality of life by enabling stable income generation through the "Grow Well, Eat Well" project. To date, 516 farmers have joined the program, cultivating over 120 rai of land and doubling their production.
Ms. Wannaporn Wattanakasemsat - Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs at Syngenta Crop Protection Co., Ltd., a leader in agricultural innovation and technology, stated that "Thailand is one of the world's major food producers, with diverse agricultural areas and significant economic crops. However, farmers face challenges such as climate change, pest and disease outbreaks, and a lack of consistent market access. These issues are particularly pronounced for small-scale farmers.
In response, Syngenta has partnered with organizations including the Raks Thai Foundation, QBox Point Co., Ltd. (developer of the 'Farmbook' application), Mae Chaem Subdistrict Municipality, and Mae Suek Subdistrict Administrative Organization in Chiang Mai. Together, we aim to equip farmers with tools and knowledge through the 'Grow Well, Eat Well' project. The initiative focuses on safe farming practices that span the entire process from production to consumption."
Ms. Wannaporn further emphasized that the project aligns with Syngenta's sustainability mission of achieving higher agricultural yields while minimizing environmental impact, emphasizing that "We aim to empower Thai farmers to produce nutritious, high-quality, and safe food that meets consumer needs. By collaborating with farmers and partners, we are fostering a positive transformation in the agricultural sector and improving farmers' livelihoods."
Mr. Direk Kruachinli, Coordinator of the Northern Environment Project at Rak Thai Foundation, added that "To build resilience in the agricultural sector, we must increase the value of agricultural products and improve farmers' incomes. This includes promoting improved crop varieties suited to local conditions, introducing high-yielding crops, and securing market access. The formation of community enterprise groups also allows farmers to share knowledge and enhance their skills. Through this project, many farmers have more than doubled their yields."
Mr. Thitipan Boonmi, Founder and CEO of QBox Point Co.,Ltd. or Farmbook application highlighted the role of technology in connecting farmers with markets, stating that "Our Farmbook platform links farmers directly with markets requiring GAP-standard produce, such as supermarkets and department stores. By aligning production with market needs, farmers can plan effectively and mitigate risks from price fluctuations. This approach significantly contributes to long-term agricultural sustainability."
Farmers participating in the project have also expressed its benefits. Mr. Prida Samawatha, Chairman of the Chang Keng Bon Safe Vegetable Enterprise Group in Mae Chaem, Chiang Mai, noted that "The project has been invaluable. We've learned everything from cultivation to marketing. Planning and adding value to our produce have not only increased our income but also improved our quality of life. Growing vegetables that meet GAP standards ensures market demand and consumer confidence. Currently, we grow five types of salad greens?green oak, red oak, red coral, frillice, and baby cos?on three rai of land, adjusting our crops based on market trends.
"Similarly, Mr. Sawet Pingkun, a member of the same enterprise group, underscored the importance of engaging the next generation in agriculture, emphasizing that "Thailand is an agricultural nation, and we need to encourage younger generations to view farming as a sustainable and fulfilling career. Projects like 'Grow Well, Eat Well' are critical, providing comprehensive knowledge and support. Expanding markets for GAP-certified produce will further motivate farmers to adopt safe and sustainable practices."
The project has already generated over 1.6 million baht in income for participating farmers, with plans to expand to provinces in northern, northeastern, and central Thailand by 2026. The goal is for 90% of participating farmers to achieve GAP certification, further strengthening the foundation of Thailand's agricultural sector.
Ms. Wannnaporn concluded, asserting that "We are proud of the project's achievements in improving farmers' livelihoods and aligning production with GAP standards. By expanding this initiative, we aim to empower Thai farmers with stable incomes, sustainable farming careers, and the capacity to produce safe, high-quality food for the market. This is a vital step in shaping the future of Thailand's agricultural industry."