Research on World Agricultural Economy

Factors Influencing Off-Season Durian Production Practices for Export in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand

Jatupol Meesawat

Department of Agricultural Economy and Development, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

Nathitakarn Phayakka

Department of Agricultural Economy and Development, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

Suraphol Sreshthaputra

Department of Agricultural Economy and Development, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

Juthathip Chalermphol

Department of Agricultural Economy and Development, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36956/rwae.v7i2.2837

Received: 16 October 2025 | Revised: 8 December 2025 | Accepted: 16 December 2025 | Published Online: 18 June 2026

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Abstract

Thailand’s durian sector continues to face challenges related to low production efficiency, which limits farmers’ income. This is largely due to a lack of in-depth knowledge in production planning and development for export, coupled with stringent export standards imposed by trading partners. These conditions highlight the urgent need for improved production processes to ensure export-quality durian. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the promotion of off-season durian production for export. The research population comprised 3254 durian farming households in Tha Sala, Sichon, and Nopphitam districts of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. A stratified random sampling method was employed to select 360 respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that farmers’ practices in off-season durian production for export were generally at a low level. The highest-rated practice was regular contact with agricultural extension officers, followed by the adoption of new technologies in production, implementation of quality assurance practices for export, participation in farmer groups to gain trade advantages, and compliance with restrictions on prohibited chemicals. Among 14 independent variables examined, five were found to have statistically significant positive relationships (p ≤ 0.05) with farmers’ production practices: export prices, household borrowing, access to production-related information, contact with government officials, and training experience in durian export production. The results emphasize the importance of institutional support, financial resources, and knowledge dissemination in enhancing farmers’ ability to meet international export standards.

 

Keywords: Off‑Season Durian Production; Practices; Thailand

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