Chulalongkorn University and Farmer Empowerment Through Knowledge in Cacao and Sustainable Land Management

“Chulalongkorn University establishes the Innovation Center for Research and Development of Sustainable Thai Cacao to tackle the crisis of falling cacao prices by providing farmers with accurate knowledge—from cultivation and harvesting to fermentation—while promoting local cacao processing businesses. The initiative reaffirms that Thai cacao still has great potential, but its future lies in focusing on “quality markets” and craft products that showcase the unique aroma and flavor of Thai cacao.”

Chulalongkorn University’s School of Agricultural Resources, led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Thansiphorn Na Nan, has established the Innovation Center for Research and Development of Sustainable Thai Cacao (ISTC) [ https://www.facebook.com/cusarcocoa ] to address the challenges faced by Thai cacao farmers and related business sectors in the cacao economy. Since its founding in 2023, the Center has continuously worked to provide practical, research-based solutions aimed at revitalizing the Thai cacao industry and promoting sustainable practices.

The Center’s core mission is to collaborate with farmers across the country, particularly in cacao-growing areas that are struggling with low-quality yields, falling market prices, and unsustainable land use practices. ISTC acts as a bridge between academic research and real-world agricultural applications, empowering local farming communities through knowledge transfer and technical support.

Among the Center’s main activities are free training programs for farmers, covering every stage of the cacao production process—from selecting suitable cultivation areas and preparing soil and irrigation systems, to post-harvest management and fermentation techniques that improve bean quality. Farmers are also introduced to digital tools and technologies, such as applications for plantation assessment and management. These initiatives aim not only to improve productivity but also to promote sustainable and responsible land use, ensuring that cacao cultivation enhances both the environment and local livelihoods.

The Center has worked directly with farmers in six key provinces—Nan, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Loei, Phitsanulok, and Nakhon Si Thammarat—reaching 200–300 farming households. As a result, participating farmers have successfully adopted improved cultivation methods, implemented systematic land management, reduced environmentally harmful practices, and expanded their economic opportunities within the local community.

[ https://www.chula.ac.th/highlight/176853/ ]

Examples of ISTC’s Training and Outreach Activities

The Center regularly organizes hands-on training workshops on “Cacao Plantation Management and Proper Cacao Tree Care” for cacao farmers and interested participants across different regions of Thailand.

These sessions are provided free of charge and conducted by lecturers from the School of Agricultural Resources, Chulalongkorn University.

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Through these initiatives, Chulalongkorn University reaffirms its commitment to sustainable agriculture, knowledge-based rural development, and creating value for Thai cacao through quality markets and distinctive craftsmanship that celebrates Thai flavor and aroma.

By      School of Agricultural Resources, Chulalongkorn University