Syngenta Showcases the Success of the "Grow Well, Eat Well" Initiative Elevating Thai Farmers to GAP Standards and Enabling Entry into Global Markets

Ms. Wannaporn Wattanakasemsat, Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs at Syngenta Crop Protection Co., Ltd., said "Over the past two years, the 'Grow Well, Eat Well' initiative has demonstrated that when farmers receive accurate guidance, practical knowledge, and sincere support, they gain the confidence to transition from traditional practices to safer forms of agriculture. This begins with field management and extends to delivering produce that meets market requirements. GAP certification has become their gateway to new opportunities and is increasingly sought after by buyers. The more than 290 GAP certificates issued through the initiative represent more than documentation. They have become the foundation for a new way of life, leading to more stable incomes, pride in contributing to food security through the production of safe food, and greater confidence in the future. Despite ongoing challenges, Syngenta remains committed to standing alongside Thai farmers in every season and across every crop, providing technologies, innovations, and knowledge, and connecting them to sustainable markets to help build a safer food system for all."

Mr. Direk Kruejinli, Northern Environmental Project Coordinator at the Raks Thai Foundation, said "Through our work with the Mae Win-Mae Wang communities, we have clearly seen how knowledge and opportunity can transform lives. Farmers now understand the principles of sustainable agriculture, plan their production based on market demand, and use natural resources responsibly. The 'Grow Well, Eat Well' initiative supports farmers throughout the entire value chain, from plot management, cost analysis, and quality control in accordance with GAP standards to the development of provincial and national market networks. Today, many farmers are able to manage their production independently and achieve more stable incomes. Most importantly, they no longer need to seek out markets. The markets are now coming to them. This marks a fundamental shift that strengthens community resilience and long-term self-reliance."

Mr. Adirek Siriwongwattanakit, a member of the Ban Pa Kluay Safe Vegetable Enterprise Group in Mae Win Subdistrict, Mae Wang District, Chiang Mai Province, shared his experience "GAP certification has opened significant market opportunities. We currently grow premium multicolour cherry tomatoes, including the 'Monday' and 'Sugarmoon' varieties, which require high investment, with seeds costing 28-30 baht each, and specialised care. The 'Grow Well, Eat Well' initiative has supported us with soil preparation, fertilization, and safe cultivation practices, resulting in consistent product quality that meets market expectations. This support gives us the confidence to invest further, as buyers trust our standards. Our cherry tomatoes are now sold to Talard Thai at approximately 70 baht per kilogram, significantly improving our income and providing greater stability for our families."

Ms. Pissamai Pruksachimplee, a member of the Ban Huai Tong Safe Vegetable Enterprise Group in Mae Win Subdistrict, Mae Wang District, Chiang Mai Province, added "I previously grew lettuce, which was in strong market demand and consistently met quality standards. This year, I decided to try Mexican chili for the first time, a new crop that requires more technical knowledge and careful management. With the support of the 'Grow Well, Eat Well' initiative in cultivation techniques, fertilization, and disease management, we achieved high-quality yields. Our latest crop produced 2,900-3,000 kilograms, with a processing factory in Lamphun purchasing at 23-24 baht per kilogram and the remainder sold to local traders at 50 baht per kilogram. GAP certification builds trust among buyers and give us the confidence to grow new crops and expand production because we are certain of market demand."

The "Grow Well, Eat Well" initiative was founded on the vision of enabling Thai farmers to cultivate well, eat well, and live well sustainably through the transfer of technical knowledge, environmentally responsible farm management, and direct market linkages. In the first 18 months alone, the initiative engaged more than 1,700 farmers across over 1,200 rai in seven provinces, including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Lamphun, Lampang, and Nong Khai, supported by partners including the Raks Thai Foundation, food industry operators, and the Department of Agriculture's agricultural research and development centers. The initiative has also facilitated the formation of 10 community enterprises and is planning to expand to central and northeastern Thailand next year to strengthen farmer networks with the skills and market readiness needed for long-term success.

"Every GAP certificate awarded today reflects true collaboration among government, the private sector, civil society, and farmers," Ms. Wannaporn concluded. "What we are building is not only a standardised production system but also a relationship between farmers, the land, and consumers, grounded in trust. When farmers are empowered with opportunities, they become a vital force in driving Thailand's grassroots economy. Syngenta will continue to expand this initiative to help create a safe and sustainable food system, enabling Thai farmers not only to 'grow well' and 'eat well' but also to 'live well,' enjoy lasting wellbeing, and pass on better opportunities to future generations while competing confidently on the global stage."

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