Market prospects for upland crops in Thailand.
Itharattana K.
Author Affiliation: Office of Agricultural Economics, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Bangkok, Thailand.
Palawija News 14 : 1-9
Abstract : This study of prospects for upland crops in Thailand begins with an analysis of recent changes in dietary and consumption patterns which have resulted from increases in population, income and urbanization. Changes in the domestic demand and external trade performance of maize, soyabeans, cassava and rice are summarized. A report of studies involving some non-traditional commodities which are considered to have good market potential (longan, durian, mangosteen and baby corn) is included. Successful and unsuccessful attempts to stimulate production and marketing of upland crops and products are examined as a series of case studies, including broilers, tomatoes, onions, mangos, cashew nuts and cotton. Policies and measures to improve Thailand's market prospects and which adopt a progressive stance are discussed.