Phitsanulok, Thailand – A remarkable milestone was recently celebrated with great enthusiasm as Mr. Phusit Somchit, Governor of Phitsanulok Province, and Ms. Chortip Salyapongse, Director of the Plant Protection Research and Development Office (PPRD) at the Department of Agriculture, officially inaugurated Bayer’s newly minted Inspection & Quality Control Building, dedicated to vegetable and corn seed production. The grand opening, held on September 17, 2024, was graced by a host of distinguished local government dignitaries, including Ms. Nongyao Korkanruad, Director of BOI Area 7 (Phitsanulok), and Ms. Papassorn Wattanakulpakin, Director of the Phitsanulok Seed Research and Development Center. They were joined by Mr. Weraphon Charoenpanit, Country Commercial Lead for Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar at Bayer Thai Co., Ltd., Bangla Bose, Head of APAC Product Supply, and Mr. Mark Nash, Tomato Crop Family Lead for Vegetable Seeds Product Supply, as well as an enthusiastic assembly of Bayer employees.
Since its inception in 2000, Bayer Thai Co., Ltd. has cemented its role as a cornerstone in Thailand’s robust corn and vegetable seed production industry, with strategic footholds in Phitsanulok, Khon Kaen, and Sakon Nakhon. Now, in an ambitious stride forward, the company has channelled a hefty investment of 138 million THB into its newest venture – the Inspection & Quality Control Building. This state-of-the-art facility heralds a new era for Bayer Thai, which the Department of Agriculture has recognized as an Accredited Seed Test Laboratory. This esteemed certification confers upon Bayer the authority to issue phytosanitary certificates, a critical assurance that plants and plant products destined for export are free from pests and diseases, thereby meeting stringent import regulations of multiple countries and regions.
The dazzling new facility is equipped with cutting-edge seed testing capabilities designed for both corn and vegetable seeds. This technological marvel will empower Bayer Thai to deliver impeccable, disease-free seeds to farmers, catering not only to the domestic market but also meeting the demands of international markets. The seeds from this center are slated for distribution to a multitude of countries, including the United States, the Netherlands, Pakistan, China, South Korea, Japan, and many other nations within the Asia Pacific region.
This monumental investment is a testament to Bayer’s unwavering commitment to elevating the standards of agriculture in the region. By fostering innovation and ensuring the production of top-tier seeds, Bayer Thai is not just addressing immediate agricultural challenges but is aligning with the Thai government’s Seed Hub policy. This policy envisions propelling Thailand to the forefront as a global leader in tropical seeds. The establishment of the new Inspection & Quality Control Building is more than just an infrastructural addition; it’s a bold statement of intent, signifying Bayer’s dedication to nurturing and advancing agricultural excellence, thereby driving the region towards a future of prosperity and sustainability.
The excitement surrounding the new facility was palpable at the opening ceremony, as attendees marveled at the technological prowess and the ambitious future it represents. For the local farming community and international stakeholders alike, Bayer’s endeavor promises to unfold new avenues of growth and collaboration, cementing Phitsanulok’s standing in the global agricultural landscape. With this significant step, Bayer Thai Co., Ltd. is poised to cultivate success, one seed at a time.
Great news for our farmers! This new facility will really help boost our seed quality.
But what about the environmental impact? Bayer isn’t exactly known for being eco-friendly.
Exactly! We should focus on sustainable farming, not corporate agendas.
We need high-quality seeds to feed our families. Good quality seeds can be eco-friendly too.
Bayer has actually been working on more sustainable practices lately. It’s not all doom and gloom, guys.
Totally agree, @farmerjoe123, this is a major win for us.
138 million THB is a massive investment. Really shows Bayer’s commitment!
Or maybe it’s just another corporate PR move to monopolize the seed market?
Not everything is a conspiracy. Investments like this can benefit local communities.
True, Janet. Sometimes a big investment is just that – a big investment.
Monopolies aside, improved seed quality can only be good for food security.
Bayer’s new facility is a big step for our city, putting Phitsanulok on the map!
Absolutely, Phitsanulok is turning into a hub for agriculture innovation.
It’s exciting to see local growth. We need more of this positive change.
Yes, but at what cost? Corporate influence can sometimes overshadow local needs.
The technology in this new building sounds incredible. Cutting-edge seed testing is the future.
If this tech trickles down to average farmers, it will be a game changer.
We need to focus on organic and sustainable farming methods, not just high-tech solutions.
Does anyone know how this will affect local farmers directly?
Hopefully, more high-quality seeds will translate to better yields and more income for local farmers.
That’s the ideal scenario, but will these advancements be affordable?
Affordability is a valid concern. Innovation is pointless if it’s out of reach for most.
Excited to see how this will contribute to Thailand’s Seed Hub policy!
Government policies are just talk unless backed by real action.
I’m impressed with the international scope of this project. Seeds reaching markets as far as the US and Japan!
Global demand for quality seeds is high. This could open up new trade opportunities.
I hope Bayer’s facility takes sustainability into account. Tech without sustainability is dangerous.
From what I’ve read, they are integrating more eco-friendly practices. It’s a step in the right direction.
Bayer’s involvement makes me wary. Their history with pesticides is troubling.
True, but everyone deserves a second chance, right? Maybe they’ll get it right this time.
Tech advancements are nice and all, but I miss the days of simple, organic farming. Anyone else?
I get that, but we have to evolve. A blend of both worlds can work.
Good point. Maybe embracing both can help us move forward.
Let’s just hope Bayer’s new facility means more jobs for locals. We need employment, not just tech showpieces.
As a farmer, I welcome any improvements in seed quality. Healthy seeds = healthy crops!