Our recent business trip to Thailand was an extraordinary and colorful experience. Set against a backdrop of vibrant culture, bustling cities and breathtaking landscapes, the journey seamlessly blends commerce and exploration. The main purpose of the visit was to meet local partners, provide valuable insights into the Thai agribusiness environment and promote collaborative relationships.
THAILAND, IS A COUNTRY WITH A PRODUCTIVE AGRICULTURAL LANDSCAPE
Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand has a diverse and fascinating geography, which contributes to its rich agricultural development. The country spans tropical plains, dense jungle and mountainous areas, with the Chao Phraya River Basin serving as an agricultural heartland. The fertile plains surrounding the river support the cultivation of a variety of crops, making it the country’s rice bowl.
Rice is a staple crop in Thai agriculture, with a variety of crops harvested every year. In addition to rice, Thailand is also known for the production of tropical fruits such as mangoes, pineapples and durians. In addition, rubber, cassava, and sugarcane are important cash crops that contribute significantly to the country’s economy.
The agricultural sector plays a key role in Thailand’s socio-economic structure, employing a significant portion of the population and shaping the country’s cultural identity.
RECEP OF HEBEN PRODUCTS IN THAILAND MARKET
2023 is a special year for the global agricultural industry. Prices of most products have dropped while most companies have high inventories, especially large multinationals. The world experiences severe weather due to El Niño. El Niño breaks drought conditions in southern South America but reduces rainfall in South Asia and the Pacific. Overall market demand remains sluggish.
To our surprise, demand in the Thai market remains stable. Perhaps because of “food safety” policies, the government has restricted the export of food, so commodity prices have remained relatively high. Our metalaxyl sales in the Thai market increased by 20% compared with last year.
Heben’s metalaxyl-related products currently occupy 80% of the Thai market. Our other popular products in the Thai market include 10% metalaxyl + 15% propamocarb WP, 722g/L propamocarb hydrochloride SL, 50% Febutatin oxide WP, 1.8% Hexythiazox EC, etc.
DURIAN, THE KING OF FRUITS
Thailand is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of durian, often called the “King of Fruits.” Durio is a unique tropical fruit known for its rich aroma, creamy texture and rich taste. Several varieties of durian are grown in different regions of Thailand, giving the country a prominent position in the global durian market.
Durian’s popularity in Thailand extends beyond its domestic consumption, with a large portion of the durian harvest being exported to various countries, especially those in Asia. Chamburi, Rayong and Xuanfeng provinces are famous durian-producing areas, and each province has its own unique durian variety, famous for its flavor and aroma.
The durian season in Thailand usually peaks from May to August, during which time the market is flooded with fresh durians. Due to its unique smell, which some people find pungent, durian is often banned from hotels and public transportation in some areas.
35% metalaxyl DS is used in durian cultivation. Thanks to the booming durian business, Tsurumi’s sales increased by 20% compared with last year. Another product, 350g/L metalaxyl-M ES, is expected to increase as some customers now find that it works well when used on durian trees.
ADOPTION OF DRONE TECHNOLOGY BY THAI FARMERS
In recent years, in Thailand and many other countries, farmers have increasingly used drones in agriculture to improve their farming practices. Thai farmers have also embraced this technological advancement to increase efficiency, monitor crops and optimize agricultural processes.
Drones equipped with specialized cameras and sensors are giving Thai farmers a bird’s-eye view of their fields, allowing them to assess crop health, identify areas of pest infestation and manage irrigation more efficiently. The technology provides real-time data to help farmers make informed decisions that increase yields and reduce environmental impact.
SUMMARY
While we have gone through a very hard year of 2023, the crop protection market is now slowly recovering. We looking forward a prosperous new year.
Time flies so fast, the 10-day business trip ended quickly, and we have just returned to the office, from “summer” to “winter”. However, I was deeply impressed by the hospitality of the Thai people, making this business trip not only a fruitful adventure but also a horizon-expanding cultural trip that created unforgettable memories.
Although we have experienced a very difficult 2023, the crop protection market is now slowly recovering. We look forward to a prosperous new year.
