In a significant move towards modernizing its agricultural sector, Thailand is embracing smart farming technologies from China, with a focus on enhancing productivity and sustainability. Earlier this month, Chen Guangfei, an engineer from Huida Tech, showcased the operation of drones on farmland in Kanchanaburi Province, highlighting the innovative solutions being implemented in this major agricultural hub of Southeast Asia.
Thailand, known for its vast agricultural landscape and as a leading global producer of natural rubber, is now turning to automation to address challenges such as labor shortages and rising operational costs. One of the pioneers in this technological shift is Somboon Songwainiaw, a 50-year-old farmer from Danmakamtia, who has seen firsthand the benefits of Huida Tech’s autopilot steering system. Somboon manages over 22 hectares of crops, including sugarcane, tomatoes, and cassava. After equipping two of his tractors with the advanced steering system, he has drastically reduced his plowing costs from 1,600 baht ($47) per rai to just 200 baht. This system, which uses satellite navigation and sensors for precise autonomous operation, has not only improved efficiency but also enabled Somboon to manage his land more effectively during peak farming seasons.
The introduction of smart farming technologies like Huida’s autopilot system is part of a broader strategy to enhance agricultural productivity in Thailand, where approximately 43 percent of the land is used for farming. The sector contributes $41.2 billion annually to the economy, accounting for 8 percent of the country’s GDP. With around 12 million farmers in Thailand, the potential for further development is substantial. Currently, there are about 5,000 drones monitoring 4 million rai of land, indicating a growing trend towards technological integration in agriculture.
Drones, in particular, have emerged as a game-changer in farming practices. Huida’s drones, equipped with a 360-degree rotating radar, can autonomously navigate and avoid obstacles while efficiently spraying pesticides and fertilizers. Chen Guangfei noted that these drones can cover approximately 40 hectares in just four hours, making them an attractive option for farmers looking to enhance their operational efficiency. Somboon expressed his eagerness to adopt drone technology, recognizing its impressive efficiency and potential to further streamline his farming operations.
Huida Tech, which has already deployed over 35,000 autopilot systems globally since its inception in 2009, plans to establish an innovation center in Thailand within the next two years. This center aims to provide comprehensive smart farming solutions tailored to local needs, promoting sustainable agricultural practices through intelligent management and large-scale production.
As Thailand navigates the challenges posed by climate change, including erratic weather patterns and reduced rainfall, the integration of science and technology in agriculture has become increasingly critical. Experts, including those from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, have advocated for structural reforms and investment in human capital to bolster the agricultural sector’s resilience. The Thai government, recognizing the importance of technology in maintaining competitiveness, is actively supporting initiatives that enhance farmers’ access to modern tools and training.
The collaboration between Thailand and Chinese tech firms like Huida Tech represents a pivotal step towards a more sustainable and efficient agricultural future, with the potential to significantly impact food security and environmental conservation in the region.
