BDDA study trip to Thailand’s agricultural markets and agrotourism sites

KUCHING: The Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA) Innovation and Socioeconomic Projects Steering Committee has embarked on a week-long study and benchmarking trip to explore Thailand’s leading agricultural markets and agrotourism destinations.

The delegation, led by BDDA chairman and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, began their visit on Monday (Sept 2) with a tour of two prominent markets near Bangkok—Talaad Thai and Or Tor Kor.

“Talaad Thai, located on a 101-hectare site in Pathum Thani, is the largest agricultural wholesale market in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) region, accommodating approximately 100,000 traders,” the statement said.

The market handles around 12,000 tons of agricultural products daily, with a daily sales volume of 290 million Baht, which is approximately RM37 million.

On Tuesday (Sept 3), the group explored the Betagro Science Centre in Lopburi Province, known for its ISO/IEC 17075-certified food and animal testing laboratories.

The delegation is also set to delve into Thailand’s coconut industry with a visit to Thai Coconut Co Ltd in Ratchaburi, including a tour of its processing plant on Wednesday (Sept 4).

Thai Coconut Co Ltd is renowned for producing and exporting high-quality coconut products both locally and internationally.

To gain insights into agrotourism, the group will visit several top farms on Thursday, including Chokchai Farm, Saithong Farm, and Punawapan Farm.

“Chokchai Farm is known for its dairy farming, producing high-quality fresh milk, cheese, and yogurt,” the statement said.

“Saithong Farm specialises in fruit farming, particularly mangoes, while Punawapan Farm sets the standard for high-quality table grape production.”

The tour will conclude on Friday with visits to Phenix Mall and Big C Ratchadamri Gourmet Market, both of which are fully integrated food wholesale and lifestyle hubs situated in the city centre.

These hubs feature over 2,400 companies from around the world, providing a wide range of quality products at reasonable prices.

The study tour group includes two members of parliament, six state assemblymen, one assemblywoman from the division, and civil servants from several relevant departments.