Mr. Dhanin Chearavanont, Senior Chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group, proposed strategies to the government at “The Listening Forum: Voices to the PM – Entrepreneurs Speak, Government Listens” held at Government House.
He emphasized that Thailand still possesses “tremendous opportunities” amid the global crisis, especially in the agriculture and food sectors, which he described as “above-ground oil” with limitless potential. He urged the government to accelerate investment in irrigation systems, water management, and the modernization of agriculture to increase farmers’ incomes, transform the grassroots economy, and establish national food security in the long run.
Mr. Dhanin stated that Thailand’s main strengths lie in its climate, sunlight, and agricultural capabilities. However, he pointed out that the key issue facing Thai agriculture is “water.” If the government invests in irrigation, constructs reservoirs, and distributes water access to agricultural areas nationwide—as it once was seen in the development of electricity and roads to reach every village—it could significantly enhance productivity and farmers’ incomes. Based on his direct experience, with water, farmers can plant up to three cycles per year, and with improved management efficiency, yields per unit could increase up to fivefold.
“Above-ground oil is more important than underground oil because everyone needs to eat. Farmers are benefactors who feed the nation, but today they are still poor. We must work together to solve this problem,” Mr. Dhanin said.
He also proposed the concept of “agro-industrial estates” that integrate agriculture, industry, and commerce within the same area. This would allow production, processing, logistics, and market access to be part of one unified system, reducing logistics costs and creating high-value agricultural products through the use of AI, technology, and innovations in future foods.
Mr. Dhanin further noted that Thailand’s industrial sector still holds many opportunities, but entrepreneurs must rapidly adapt to new-generation production systems by using AI, automated machinery, and smart logistics to boost competitiveness in a rapidly changing world. This includes upgrading Thai agricultural products to higher-value goods, such as processed foods, future foods, and products that harness intensive research and development.
“The winners of the future will be those who adapt quickly, and logistics will be the key to competition. If AI is well utilized in management, traditional businesses will become more efficient, and many new businesses will emerge as a result,” Mr. Dhanin concluded.
