Impacts of the Government Para-Rubber Policies on Para-Rubber Plantations in Thailand

Abstract

                  The objectives of this qualitative research were: 1) to analyze the impact of government para-rubber policies on para-rubber plantations in Thailand; and 2) to study a way to develop plans for para-rubber policies in Thailand. The research methods were based on qualitative data upon primary and secondary sources, as well as a review of the literature review, non-participative observation, including in-depth interviews with government officials, interest groups, farming households and para-rubber entrepreneurs. The study showed that the governmental policies that most increased the para-rubber plantation areas were the buffer stock projects to stabilize para-rubber prices and development of the Agricultural Future Exchange of Thailand. However, price intervention policies had no significant impact upon the rubber price. These findings suggested that the government should assume responsibility to help farming households cope with price risks, such as establishing a fund for small farmers to stabilize domestic rubber prices. Other policies might be created to develop long-term rubber industry innovation, along with measures for mutual reinforcement.