Betel nuts are an important economic crop globally, with consumption and production continuously on the rise. Between 2016 and 2022, betel nuts generated substantial income for Thailand, with export values ranging from 1.045 to 2.151 billion baht per year.

Thailand has faced challenges in exporting betel nuts over the past year, significantly impacting farmers and exporters. To mitigate these issues and increase opportunities, the Thai government is rapidly implementing key measures as follows:

Measure One: Accelerate Trade Negotiations with India

• Negotiate with the Indian government through trade mechanisms such as BIMSTEC, the Thailand-India FTA, and AIFTA.
• The goal is to request a reduction in customs duties and exemptions from minimum import prices for Thai betel nuts.
• Reducing tariffs will help lower the risk of disruptions in exports.

Measure Two: Expand New Export Markets

• Thailand should seek new export markets for betel nuts, such as Europe and the Middle East.
• Study the case of Indonesia, which has adjusted its sales channels and exported betel nuts to countries like Pakistan, Myanmar, India, and Iran.
• Expanding markets will help reduce dependence on primary markets and increase trade opportunities.

Measure Three: Promote Research and Development

• Develop processed betel nut products, such as snacks, betel nut powder, and tannin extracts.
• Support research on using betel nuts in medicine, such as antidepressants and antioxidants.
• The government should be cautious about promoting direct consumption of betel nuts due to their carcinogenic properties.

For Additional Information: Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI)

Link: https://tdri.or.th/