Motorists advised to avoid certain roads during Apec motorcade rehearsals

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Motorists advised to avoid certain roads during Apec motorcade rehearsals

Motorists advised to avoid certain roads during Apec motorcade rehearsals

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 02, 2022

The Foreign Ministry announced on Wednesday that several roads will be closed this Sunday and November 12 when the ministry rehearses the movement of Apec leaders’ motorcades.

Protocol Department director-general Pakawat Tansakul said the rehearsal of transporting Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders will commence at 7pm on both days.

He said several roads and expressways will be closed during the rehearsals, but did not specify which ones exactly while mentioning general routes.

He added that the Foreign Ministry would like to apologise to the public for the inconvenience.

On Sunday, November 6, the rehearsal will start from Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre, with the motorcades driving to 20 hotels where Apec leaders will stay.

The motorcades will also be driven to Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall, the Royal Thai Navy auditorium and back to Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.

On November 12, the rehearsal commences from the centre, with the motorcades heading to Don Mueang International Airport, the Don Mueang military airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport as well as to various hotels, before returning to the convention centre.

Army chief orders border security boost ahead of Apec Summit

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Army chief orders border security boost ahead of Apec Summit

Army chief orders border security boost ahead of Apec Summit

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 02, 2022

Army Commander-in-Chief General Narongpan Jitkaewthae on Wednesday instructed all Army battle commands in charge of border protection to step up security along Thailand’s borders ahead of the Apec summit in two weeks.

Royal Thai Army deputy spokeswoman Maj-General Sirichan Ngathong said Narongpan gave the order during a monthly meeting of commanders in charge of the Army’s key battle commands at Army Headquarters.

Sirichan quoted Narongpan as instructing his subordinates to lend full support to the government in keeping tight security ahead of and during the summit on November 18 and 19.

Narongpan told the meeting the Army can help the government during the summit by using appropriate measures to tighten border security to prevent illegal entry into the kingdom.

He also instructed his subordinates to step up measures to prevent the smuggling of narcotics across borders.

The Army chief told the meeting all units must be ready to support the government to ensure the summit goes off smoothly so Thailand can win confidence among the international community.

He thanked the commands in charge of overseeing the borders for seizing up to 1.89 million methamphetamine pills and one kilogramme of crystal meth in the past month alone.

Narongpan additionally instructed all commands to “take good care of Army conscripts” during their period in service.

He asked the Army Training Command to provide suitable career training to the conscripts so they can make a living after they are discharged.

All commands were also instructed to monitor conscripts’ health during training and find out if they have problems back home and provide assistance accordingly. For example, if the draftees have to take care of elderly parents, their commanders must find a way to help the parents who may be left alone during that period.

The commands were also instructed to use innovation and apps to monitor conscripts’ health after the Army recently organised a competition of such apps, Sirichan said.

Narongpan went on to thank all commands for having earlier dispatched soldiers to help alleviate the plight of flood victims.

He told commanders to deploy troops to help clean up houses and roads after floodwaters subside.

The Army chief told his subordinates to provide troops to help keep security when this is requested by organisers of key events for the rest of the year, including Loy Krathong.

Furthermore, the commanders were instructed to provide support for tourism activities so that the economy recovers soon, the spokeswoman added.

Related stories:

14 world leaders confirm they will be at Apec Summit in Bangkok, Putin undecided

Thai private sector ‘ready to host’ world business leaders at APEC CEO Summit

Port Authority turns Warehouse Stadium into huge parking space for Apec Summit

Weaving Apec 2022

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Weaving Apec 2022

Weaving Apec 2022

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 02, 2022

The Apec 2022 logo is a “chalom” or woven basket traditionally used to carry goods and gifts.

The basket is meant to reflect Thailand’s uniqueness as well as the grouping’s attributes.

It also signifies the 2022 Apec Summit theme:

Open: The opening at the top represents open-ended investments among Apec economies.

Connect: A “chalom” is traditionally used to carry goods while travelling and thus signifies the connection between Apec members.

Balance: A “chalom” is traditionally made of cane, which is environmentally friendly and matches the bio-circular-green economy concept – a key agenda of the summit.

The 21 spaces between the weaves represent the 21 Apec members.

Blue represents “Open”

Pink represents “Connect”

Green represents “Balance”

The logo was designed by Chawanon Wongtrakuljong, an architecture student from Chulalongkorn University.

Weaving Apec 2022

Related News

Esteemed Thai wine to be served to Apec leaders attending summit 

Thai chefs battle to wow world leaders at Apec summit

Naga becomes Thailand’s official national mythological creature

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Naga becomes Thailand’s official national mythological creature

Naga becomes Thailand’s official national mythological creature

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 02, 2022

A Cabinet meeting on Tuesday approved the Naga as Thailand’s national mythological creature in a bid to promote the study and conservation of history and culture and drive the creative economy using the creature as a symbol of Thai culture.

Deputy government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek said the move had been proposed by The National Culture Committee, which had earlier tasked the Fine Arts Department with drawing a prototype picture of the Naga, a half-human, half-serpentine being, based on folklore to be used as a mythological national animal.

According to the National Culture Committee, Thais believe there are four royal families of Nagas, namely Virupakkhas (golden Nagas), Erapatha (green Nagas), Chabbyaputtas (rainbow-colour Nagas), and Kanhagotamakas (black Nagas). The department’s drawing includes the largest Naga in Thai folklore called Vasuki, who had close relationships with Buddhism and ancient kings.

Naga becomes Thailand’s official national mythological creature

Ratchada said Nagas have been present in Thai culture, traditions and rituals since ancient times, such as the popular Naga fireball festival and “Lai Reua Fai”, or illuminated boat procession to mark the end of Buddhist lent.

Nagas are often depicted as symbols of water and abundance. They are also believed to be protectors of Buddhism and are often used to decorate staircase rails leading to sacred Buddhist establishments, which feature Buddha’s footprints or relics.

Naga becomes Thailand’s official national mythological creature

Ratchada added that based on data from the Culture Ministry, there are 157 countries which have announced 229 animals as national mythological creatures, with some nations having more than one mythological animal.

A country can have both a national and a mythological national animal, such as China which has a panda and a dragon, Indonesia a komodo dragon and a garuda, Greece a dolphin and a phoenix. As for Thailand, elephants have been the kingdom’s national animal following a declaration by the Office of the Prime Minister dated October 26, 2001.

Related Stories

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Nong Khai all set to welcome tourists for Naga Fireball fest

Naga Cave only open to 500 visitors per day, reservations required, says park chief

Enthusiasts rush to pick up 20-baht coins marking 2022 Apec Summit

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Enthusiasts rush to pick up 20-baht coins marking 2022 Apec Summit

Enthusiasts rush to pick up 20-baht coins marking 2022 Apec Summit

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 01, 2022

Collectors in Chiang Mai snapped up more than 1,200 coins commemorating the 2022 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Summit on the first day of its release.

The 20-baht coin featuring an image of King Rama X on one side and the 2022 Apec Summit logo on the other was released nationwide on Tuesday.

Hundreds of coin collectors flocked to provincial treasury offices on Tuesday morning to pick up the special coin.

A Chiang Mai resident, who had been queuing up since 10.30am, said he has been collecting coins for nearly 50 years now and would add this to his ever-growing collection.

Enthusiasts rush to pick up 20-baht coins marking 2022 Apec Summit

Korachak Chuthip, Chiang Mai provincial treasury office chief, said most collectors preferred to show up in person to buy the coins, adding that he expects all 7,500 coins allocated to his office to be bought up in the next day or two.

“The office has limited the purchase of the coins to 50 per person so more people can collect them,” he said.

Enthusiasts rush to pick up 20-baht coins marking 2022 Apec Summit

The 20-baht coins can be bought at:

• Bureau of Monetary Management, Pathum Thani

• Coin Exchange Centre, Chakrabongse Road, Bangkok

• Coin Exchange Centre, Rama VI Road, Bangkok

• Treasury offices nationwide

The coin can also be purchased online via www.treasury.go.th. Buyers can choose to pick it up at one of the exchange centres or have it sent by post.

Related stories:

Ex-Samut Prakan chief linked with THB100m temple-subsidy corruption: NACC

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Ex-Samut Prakan chief linked with THB100m temple-subsidy corruption: NACC

Ex-Samut Prakan chief linked with THB100m temple-subsidy corruption: NACC

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 01, 2022

A former president of the Samut Prakan Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) and his accomplices engaged in fraudulent purchases with more than 100 million baht in temple subsidy money, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) said on Monday.

Chonsawat Asavahame and up to seven accomplices were linked to corruption in 20 temple restoration projects between 2011 and 2013, the NACC’s investigation found.

Chonsawat had violated Section 151 of the Criminal Code with his fraudulent purchases and abuse of authority, resulting in damage to the state, the NACC said.

He faces a maximum of life imprisonment and a 400,000 baht fine if the court finds him guilty, it said. Chonsawat also violated Section 157 of the code by neglecting his duties, which carries penalties of 10 years in jail and/or a fine of up to 200,000 baht, said the NACC.

Chonsawat is the son of fugitive politician Vatana Asavahame, who fled the country after being sentenced in 2008 to 10 years for corruption in the Klong Dan wastewater plant scandal.

In 2015, the Supreme Court sentenced Chonsawat to one year and six months in jail for fraud during the 1999 municipal elections in Samut Prakan. He was later granted a royal pardon on September 7, 2016.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection sets sail

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The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection sets sail

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection sets sail

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 01, 2022

Illustrating the world-renowned brand’s commitment to innovative, groundbreaking luxury travel experiences, Evrima signifies the evolution of the hospitality icon while paving the way for a new era of yacht-style cruising.

BETHESDA, MD –- The Ritz-Carlton today announced the debut of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, marking a significant moment for the iconic hospitality brand as it makes its foray into the luxury yachting space. Envisioned to perfectly blend the lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton resorts with the casual freedom of a yachting vacation, Evrima, the first of three custom-built yachts from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, delivers highly tailored getaways for travelers seeking to wholly immerse themselves in the culture of each destination.  

“We are thrilled to introduce The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and usher in an exciting new chapter for this beloved brand,” said Chris Gabaldon, Senior Vice President for Luxury Brands, Marriott International. “The Ritz-Carlton has long been rooted in innovation and service excellence, guided by a commitment to be at the forefront of delivering transformative travel experiences. As we continue to evolve our legendary brand, we could not be more excited to give our guests the opportunity to experience The Ritz-Carlton in a new way.”

Unveiling unique itineraries and immersive experiences, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection carves out an exclusive space within the industry while exemplifying the brand’s forward-thinking approach to luxury hospitality. Stopping at both intimate and signature ports of call, most voyages range from seven to ten nights, with no two journeys alike so that guests can combine itineraries without repeating a destination. Depending on the season, Evrima visits the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. Destinations along the way range from Spain’s Balearic Islands and coveted havens along the French Riviera, to the aquamarine shores of Aruba and the tropical coastlines of Costa Rica. The intimate size of Evrima also allows unique access into some of the most sought-after ports of call, delivering yacht-style cruising in destinations such as Mykonos, Saint-Tropez, and St. Barts. 

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection sets sail

“The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is revolutionizing the luxury cruising industry, creating an entirely unique category designed for those in search of unmatched getaways, highly curated itineraries, insider access and a level of personalization previously unseen in the space.” commented Douglas Prothero, Chief Executive Officer for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, “Every element of the luxury yachting experience was considered when designing and creating Evrima, and we are excited to deliver unforgettable journeys for both longtime cruisers and those who are new to the industry.”

The specially designed yacht measures 190-meters and can accommodate up to 298 passengers. The onboard experience reflects the sublime comfort and legendary service for which The Ritz-Carlton brand is renowned, with one of the highest staff and space ratios at sea. The design of the yacht’s 149 suites is one of the many tone-setting elements. In addition to offering a high percentage of large suites, Evrima also features several innovative two-story loft suites, a unique duplex accommodation. All rooms feature a private terrace and floor to ceiling windows, resulting in some of the most airy and expansive guestrooms at sea. Through a blind wall, select suites also have the option to be combined into larger, open-concept spaces allowing for more flexibility when selecting accommodations. All suites feature the luxurious amenities that visitors expect from Ritz-Carlton properties around the world, including a king bed, double vanity bathroom, luxury linens, and more. 

Travelers enjoy a relaxed sense of freedom aboard Evrima, with access to a range of elevated programming and amenities including a thoughtfully curated menu of ESPA and 111SKIN spa treatments, a sauna and steam room, watersports from the yacht’s marina while at anchor, an infinity pool, a fitness studio and more. Guests can also select from a breadth of dining options including locally-inspired creations in The Evrima Room, creative interpretations of Southeast Asian Cuisine and a sit down sushi bar at Talaat Nam, a specialty dining experience in S.E.A., designed by chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg, and more. Enriching entertainment on board includes intimate performances by in-house jazz and classical musicians, discussions led by renowned experts, and partnerships with local arts and music communities. Families exploring the world together can enjoy a dedicated space on board for Ritz Kids. The Ritz Kids programming, tailored for young guests between the ages of four and twelve, has been crafted to appeal to children’s curiosity and innate love for discovery, with an emphasis on marine conservation. 

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection sets sail

In each destination, guests can choose from a selection of unique experiences within The Shore Collection that align with their interests or utilize the services of the Concierge Ashore to customize their own private tours. Experiences onshore range from a guided tour in a world-class museum with its curator, visiting a UNESCO World Heritage site, to yoga on a private beach, zip-lining through a rain forest, truffle hunting, and more. By working with local guides who were selected for their insider knowledge and subject matter expertise, guests enjoy a singular journey. On select itineraries, guests can deepen their experience mid-voyage through an overnight tour, promising an unforgettable and uniquely immersive cultural experience before rejoining the yacht at their next destination. 

The yachts of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are also available for private charter. For more information, please visit www.ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com. For reservations, contact a Reservations Services Agent at (833) 999-7292 (U.S. & Canada) or contact your travel professional. Voyage prices vary based upon the itinerary and season. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is also a part of Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s travel program. 

‘SINGHA LEMON SODA’ and ‘SMILEY WORLD’ deliver happiness and freshness on limited-edition cans

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'SINGHA LEMON SODA' and 'SMILEY WORLD' deliver happiness and freshness on limited-edition cans

‘SINGHA LEMON SODA’ and ‘SMILEY WORLD’ deliver happiness and freshness on limited-edition cans

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 01, 2022

“SINGHA LEMON SODA” joins with SMILEY WORLD, the world-famous lifestyle brand to deliver 8 famous smile icon designs on limited-edition cans in the concept of “Keep Smiling, Smile for a Different Freshness” to spread happiness with smiling faces, fill the freshness in every day with a satisfying sourness to the end of this year via every 7-Eleven channel, and let the fans collect items to the most exclusive.

Mr. Titiporn Thammapimookkul, Chief Marketing Officer of the Boonrawd Trading Co., Ltd. revealed the success of the product “SINGHA LEMON SODA” by doing marketing for only 2-3 years. It creates growth that can dominate the cores of the target consumers remarkably well with its unique taste, which is to glorify the fizziness and perfect combination of real lemon sourness, with no sugar and 0% calories to fulfill the freshness, and it comes with being a healthy alternative drink for consumers.

Therefore, from the first product, SINGHA LEMON SODA comes with a commitment to fulfill the needs of target customers to serve a variety of new flavored beverages. In accomplishing this, The company has strengthened by releasing a new flavor ‘SINGHA YUZU LEMON SODA’, which brings a yuzu citrus scent which is a popular trend around the world and in Thailand to satisfy consumers. And recently, we also launched ‘SINGHA RED LEMON SODA’, to serve the most popular drink menus in Thailand with no sugar and calorie-free to fulfill the needs of customers.

This time, SINGHA LEMON SODA, has joined forces with the world-famous smiley icon “SMILEY WORLD” to bring a total of 8 cute designs with limited-edition designs on a can of SINGHA LEMON SODA, which is the first time to create a new taste of happiness with a smiling face, fulfilling the freshness that combines sour and satisfying every day with the style and uniqueness of the consumer. This product will be sold via exclusive convenience stores, only at 7-Eleven stores. Also, The fans can prepare and be ready to collect the exclusive items.

The highlight of SMILEY WORLD before it is the smiley face icon that resonates with the world today. Beginning in 1971, French journalist “Franklin Loufrani” painted a yellow smiling face with the slogan “Take Time To Smile”. It became an emoticon for the newspaper France-Soir, which symbolizes the appearance of good news. Later, SMILEY WORLD entered the digital world, continued to warmly welcome people with many new face designs, and became the emoticon that brings happiness and brightness that won the hearts of people around the world.

The campaign “SINGHA LEMON SODA X SMILEY”, will begin to bring happiness to consumers from today onwards. You can join the fun and get special awards from Smiley world, with T-shirts, hoodies, and bags. You can follow the details of the event at https://www.facebook.com/SinghaLemonSoda 

Explore and play at Hong Kong’s newest attractions

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Explore and play at Hong Kong’s newest attractions

Explore and play at Hong Kong’s newest attractions

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 01, 2022

Some things just never get old and Hong Kong is definitely the perfect example of this. The ever-changing and dynamic world city always has new sights in store for visitors and families looking for a wholesome family vacation.

Hong Kong has been quite busy sprucing up its tourism offerings during the pandemic, and here are just a few of the new attractions Hong Kong has to offer: 


Revel in the wonders of Castle of Magical Dreams at Hong Kong Disneyland

A favorite amongst kids and young at heart, the iconic Hong Kong Disneyland recently unveiled its newest castle – the Castle of Magical Dreams, inspired by the Disney Princesses and Queens and how these heroines pursued their dreams. Alongside this new castle is the breathtaking night-time spectacular entitled “Momentous,” where large-scale projections illuminate the castle, transforming it into an inspiring narrative featuring Disney’s beloved characters. 

Filipino Hong Kong Superfan Caren White shares about her visit, “My family saw the fireworks in Disneyland last month and it was beautiful. We loved how they synchronized the music and the water fountains.”

Explore and play at Hong Kong’s newest attractions

Hop onto Exhilarating Escapades at The Peak

To fully appreciate Hong Kong’s iconic skyline, take a trip on the recently upgraded Peak Tram – the ultimate experience to get that Insta-worthy views of skyscraper-flanked Victoria Harbor, Kowloon peninsula, and green mountain peaks. The Peak Tower is also home to Madame Tussauds, Peak Galleria, and Monopoly Dreams – the first Monopoly-themed attraction in the world, sure to bring fun for every family member. Filipino Hong Kong Superfan Richard Juan regards The Peak as “one of the most iconic places in HK as you can see the Harbor at its most majestic angle!”
 

Explore and play at Hong Kong’s newest attractions

Dip and Splash at Water World Ocean Park

After four years in the making, Ocean Park’s Water World finally opened to the public late last year. Water World is Asia’s only year-round, all-weather water park, nestled between rolling hills and magnificent views of the South China Sea. Families can enjoy over 27 different attractions at the park, including a trio of thrilling body slides that can take you through 58-meter-long loops, daredevil free falls, and see-through slides to test your courage.
 

Explore and play at Hong Kong’s newest attractions

Experience Oodles of Fun and Flavors at the Nissin Cup Noodles Museum

Noodle lovers are sure to enjoy this fun-filled Nissin Cup Noodles Museum over at Tsim Sha Tsui. This interactive space features multiple exhibitions highlighting the classic and all-time favorite Nissin Cup Noodles. The museum also offers visitors a chance to make their own version at the My CUPNOODLES Factory – where guests can choose their ingredients, and even design their own packaging.
 

Explore and play at Hong Kong’s newest attractions

Jump into the Biggest Box of Bricks Ever at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

The largest indoor LEGO playground in Hong Kong is home to 10 LEGO-themed play areas ranging from Kingdom Quest to LEGO friends and many more. This 30,000-square-foot playground boasts 1.5 million LEGO brick creations that feature Hong Kong’s iconic landmarks like Star Ferry and Central Pier! Families can also feast their eyes on their favorite film characters in 4D and build epic LEGO creations alongside master builders – all under one roof.


Learn through play at the Newly Opened Kiztopia

Singapore’s award-winning indoor “edutainment” theme park opened its first overseas flagship in Hong Kong this September. The award-winning 12,000 square feet mega playroom features eight original cartoon characters who will guide kids through the 15 major play zones where they can learn arts and crafts, speech and drama, roleplay, and many more!

Explore and play at Hong Kong’s newest attractions

A wholesome and exciting adventure awaits on your next visit to Hong Kong! Whether a first-time visitor or a returning one, experience Hong Kong and all its new delights through these fresh and fun attractions. Learn more about what Hong Kong has to offer at https://www.discoverhongkong.com/seasia/what-s-new/highlights/newadventures.html

CUVET’s “Saraburi Premium Milk” business model to promote Thai dairy farmers’ competitiveness in the global market

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CUVET’s “Saraburi Premium Milk” business model to promote Thai dairy farmers’ competitiveness in the global market

CUVET’s “Saraburi Premium Milk” business model to promote Thai dairy farmers’ competitiveness in the global market

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 01, 2022

Chula Veterinary Science Research supports dairy farmers to develop their product quality and brands as entrepreneurs of dairy farm businesses under “Saraburi Premium Milk” to stand competitive in the face of economic crisis.

The program hopes to increase Thai farmers’ competitive edge in order to address the looming threat of the Free Trade agreement (FTA) that will go into full effect in 2025 and reduce the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Farmers have the opportunity to generate more income by producing high-quality raw milk and enhancing their farm’s production efficiency. This will provide an alternative for more than 16,000 Thai dairy farmers who need to be prepared for the impacts of the threat when dairy products from Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Japan flood the market in 2025 when tariffs are taken away by the FTA.

Production acceleration and diversification of marketing channels of fresh and high-quality milk are the key. So, the research project “the Development of Model Dairy Business and Premium Dairy products, Saraburi Province” was initiated.  Funded by the Program Management Unit on Area Based Development (PMUA), Office of Higher Education, Science Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO) since 2021, the research team has been serving as mentor to the dairy farmers in upgrading milk quality, and developing their entrepreneurial skills, while creating prototype dairy farm business model and branding. As a result, three local brands were selected,” says Associate Professor Dr. Kittisak Ajariyakhajorn, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science (CUVET), Chulalongkorn University.

CUVET’s “Saraburi Premium Milk” business model to promote Thai dairy farmers’ competitiveness in the global market

“This is one of the viable ways Thai dairy farmers can survive. As the major milk-producing countries see the potential of the premium milk market in Asia, with the People’s Republic of China having as high as 26% of premium milk consumers, followed by the United States and Australia, we should also move into the premium milk market in both Thailand and neighboring countries.  Production capability, the freshness of the products, and the ability for fast delivery to consumers will raise our competitiveness compared to the competitions from abroad.”

According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittisak, Chulalongkorn University is well equipped academically to support dairy farmers — from farm management to product processing technology, marketing, and related research. This research project has been supported by the Dairy Research and Technology Transfer for Tropical Dairy Development of CUVET located at the Centre of Learning Network for Region (CLNR), Kaeng Khoi District, Saraburi Province, which serves as the main agency in the dissemination of industry knowledge in farm management, and construction of premium raw milk quality grading and sorting system.  In terms of premium product development, the project partnered with the Chula Faculty of Science to develop product prototypes, and the Chula Business School in business model and marketing.

CUVET’s “Saraburi Premium Milk” business model to promote Thai dairy farmers’ competitiveness in the global market

What is premium milk?

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittisak described the quality of premium cow’s milk as milk with a high fat content of no less than 4%, protein content of no less than 3.1%, and white blood cells and bacteria not exceeding the standards set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is above the regular milk standards. These qualities affect the taste of ready-to-drink milk, and when processed into products such as yogurt, cheese, butter, etc., they have a longer shelf life.


Unlocking Thai Dairy Farmers’ Potential

Thailand has about 600,000 dairy cows capable of producing an average of 3,000 tons of raw milk per day or over a million tons per year, totaling 2 billion baht in value. However, milk products only grow 1- 3% per year, so the research team aimed at developing prototype premium milk products that will generate at least 15% more value.

“Saraburi Province” was chosen for this prototype research location, not only for Chula’s learning and research center, but also because it was the origin of dairy cow farming, as well as the country’s leading milk producer.  Currently, there are more than 4,000 dairy cow farmers, or a quarter of the country’s total who can produce about 20 percent of Thailand’s cow milk.

“Dairy farmers in Saraburi suffer from high production costs. The hot weather also reduces milk yields. In addition, the dairy farms in Saraburi are medium-sized farms that cannot sell raw milk directly to the factory,” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittisak revealed.  So, the research project assisted the farmers with Precision Dairy Farm Management techniques, a heat reduction system that allow the dairy cows to have better appetites, hence higher milk yields, and quality control of raw milk according to the standards.


Milk Quality Screening

To build a network of high-potential farmers, the research team started by communicating with interested farmers.
Assistant Professor Thanasak Boonserm, Department of Veterinary Medicine, CUVET stressed that “collectors of raw milk had no way to separate excellent-quality raw milk from average lower grade milk, so they pour everything together at milk collection centers or dairy cooperatives before it is sold to processing facilities.

CUVET’s “Saraburi Premium Milk” business model to promote Thai dairy farmers’ competitiveness in the global market

“Farmers who produce premium quality whole milk thus lose the opportunity to fetch a better price for their premium output. Milk processing companies do not have access to premium quality raw milk to process into higher value-added dairy products, while consumers miss the opportunity to acquire premium milk.”

The project selected target farmers from among the 12 members of milk collection centers and dairy cooperatives. Based on the results of the six-month retrospective milk quality review, 114 dairy farmers (out of 4,008) were found to produce premium raw milk. However, they still lacked the ability to do so consistently. So, the team worked with these farmers to improve the quality of raw milk, and the farmers’ thinking process through various learning processes, to enhance their confidence in becoming premium dairy entrepreneurs.

CUVET’s “Saraburi Premium Milk” business model to promote Thai dairy farmers’ competitiveness in the global market


Building 3 Prototype Brands under “Saraburi Premium Milk”

Too often, research and development often focus on the products and leaves the farmers to do their marketing, which is their weakness. But in this research project, we worked together in developing a business model, market test launch, market research, and service design that would promote product distribution that would link to urban consumers.

The project has selected 3 model farms under the “Saraburi Premium Milk” umbrella.  The 3 brands have their uniqueness, namely, Petchpana Milk farm raises their cows with fresh and quality grass, NP Dairy is a zero-waste farm with Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) management, and Be More Milk operates a certified organic dairy farm.  Most recently, the pasteurized milk and Greek yogurt from these 3 farms have been test-launched at CUVET, Chula Sports Center, Lido Connect Siam Square, and distributed through the Line application.

“The market test results are satisfactory and consumers got a new experience of consuming fresh milk, and they can feel the difference from the milk they had consumed before,” Assist. Prof. Thanasak said.

CUVET’s “Saraburi Premium Milk” business model to promote Thai dairy farmers’ competitiveness in the global market


“Saraburi Premium Milk” business model for Thai dairy farmers

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittisak, Head of the project, hopes that the “Saraburi Premium Milk” business model will lead to the development of a new milk production value chain that will increase the household income of dairy farmers. The dairy processing business owned by the farmer groups will sustain Thailand’s dairy farming jobs, and consumers will also have more choices for healthy premium dairy products.

“The challenge lies in the farmers’ readiness to start new businesses. Each farmer and cooperative have different policies.  The project, therefore, provides support to the farmers with promising potential to start a premium milk business to be a model and provide reassurance and confidence to other farmers.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittisak adds that the project is currently studying prototypes of small factories using inexpensive but efficient machinery, that can offer sustainability and expansion into the distribution channels through modern trade and online marketing channels.  He also stressed that the sustainable success of the research project requires government support to formulate a clear policy and push this into the strategic plan of Saraburi Province.

The research project is looking for partners, investors, or farmers who are interested in developing a premium dairy business. For project updates, follow the Facebook page: the Dairy Research and Technology Transfer for Tropical Dairy Development, CUVET.