Research on World Agricultural Economy

Competitiveness of Thailand Cassava Export: An Empirical Analysis of ASEAN Markets

Saranya Raksong

Mahasarakham Business School, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham 44150, Thailand

Kesinee Muenthaisong

Mahasarakham Business School, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham 44150, Thailand

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36956/rwae.v6i2.1658

Received: 5 January 2025 | Revised: 5 February 2025 | Accepted: 6 February 2025 | Published Online: 22 April 2025

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Abstract

Cassava is a one of important economic crop in Thailand, as it providing substantial cash, employment, renewable energy, and significantly contributing to agricultural exports. Within the ASEAN region, where Thailand is the largest exporter of cassava products, the competitive environment has intensified due to regional economic integration. This paper examines the competitiveness of Thailand’s cassava exports within ASEAN markets and identifies key factors influencing trade performance. Using secondary time-series data from 1997 to 2024, this study calculates the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) index and applies econometric models to explore the impact of macroeconomic and market-specific variables. The findings reveal that Thailand’s cassava export competitiveness has improved significantly since 2010, supported by positive contributions from ASEAN’s GDP growth and Vietnam’s cassava price index. Conversely, the Thai cassava price index and exchange rate fluctuations negatively affect competitiveness. These insights provide a foundation for designing strategies and policies to enhance Thailand’s cassava export performance, ensuring long-term sustainability and competitiveness in regional and global markets.

Keywords: Export Competitiveness; Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA); ASEAN Trade Dynamics

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