Project Establishment: “Thai Cooperative Rice Center and Cooperative Goods Distribution Center”

The Cooperative Promotion Department initiated the “Cooperative Goods Distribution Center” to develop and enhance distribution channels for cooperative products, ensuring they reach consumers effectively and equitably. The Agricultural Co-operative Federation of Thailand, Ltd. (ACFT), as the central hub for agricultural cooperatives nationwide, is responsible for promoting and supporting agricultural cooperatives in areas such as production inputs, marketing, and management knowledge. The ACFT has been tasked by the Cooperative Promotion Department to establish the distribution center to connect production and marketing networks, ensuring fair pricing for products from cooperatives to members and consumers.

       The “Thai Cooperative Rice Center,” part of the Cooperative Goods Distribution Center, was conceived by Mr. Sirichai Orsuwan, President of the ACFT, who recognized that rice farming is a primary occupation for many farmers, yet they often lack bargaining power and are exploited by buyers, leading to debt. With support from the Cooperative Promotion Department, the center was established to serve as a hub for buying and selling various types and varieties of rice, including jasmine rice, sticky rice, ordinary rice, and local rice varieties, produced by agricultural cooperatives nationwide. The center aims to sell directly to consumers with the slogan “Support Thai Farmers, Happiness for Both Givers and Receivers” and to serve as a learning center for youth and the public. It provides information about different rice varieties in Thailand, their history, origins, and the agricultural processes involved in producing the rice we consume today.