THE RICE EXPORT POLICY OF THAILAND UNDER A MODEL MIXED ECONOMIC SYSTEM A.D. 2011-2024

Abstract

This research aims to study 1) the development of Thailand's rice export policy under a mixed economy system during 2011–2024, 2) the role of the government and private sector in participating in Thailand's rice exports under a mixed economy system, and 3) policy upgrade guidelines for future Thailand's rice exports. The research uses a qualitative method, drawing from document data and in-depth interviews with 10 key informants. Descriptive analysis was used to find that:

            1) The development of Thai rice export policy has evolved based on differing economic approaches. During the Yingluck Shinawatra government, the focus was on price intervention through the rice pledging scheme and government-to-government export policies. While this increased farmers' income, it created a budgetary burden and reduced competitiveness. The Prayut Chan-o-cha government shifted to a more supportive intervention approach through income guarantee policies and a production-led marketing strategy to maintain price balance. The Settha Thavisin government focused on expanding international market networks through strategic cooperation between the government and the private sector. 2) The roles of the public and private sectors: The government sets policies and supports infrastructure development, from negotiating international trade to establishing quality standards and developing logistics. The private sector plays an operational role in production, processing, product innovation, and expanding marketing networks both domestically and internationally. 3) Policy upgrade approaches: The government should transition from being a price setter to a creator of a competitive ecosystem, enhancing capabilities, focusing on investment in innovation and production technology, and developing sustainable cooperation mechanisms with the private sector for proactive marketing strategy planning.