Contract farming is a means to assist small growers in gaining market access and reducing
price risk, and as such it has attracted attention from development agencies and
governments in developing countries. This paper reviews literature related to contract
farming in Thailand and adds updated information based on field visits in 2007. Special
attention is given to roles played by government in the initial stage of contract farming
development. Conclusively, it is important for the public sector to create a favorable
environment and infrastructure to encourage investment in agribusiness and to coordinate
the concerned parties to raise agricultural productivity.
The paper also evaluates the effectiveness of contract farming as a means to stabilize
farmers’ income and strategize agricultural development. The findings show that while the
poorest farmers were not excluded from contract farming, special measures may be needed
to encourage their full participation. In the long run, small farmers were able to accumulate
production and management skills, thus improving their bargaining position. Together with
improved infrastructure and a more competitive market due to farmers’ innovation, the
farmers’ best choice may include non-contract production.