From raw materials to finished products : the challenges of Thai OTOP enterprises in selected provinces in Thailand

Author: Viritpol Ponark

AIT Library Call Number: AIT Diss. No.DP-25-02

Year: 2025

Academic Program: Development Planning Management and Innovation (DPMI)

Type: Thesis (Ph.D.) – Asian Institute of Technology, 2025

Examination Committee: Mokbul Morshed Ahmad (Chairperson); Thi Phuoc Lai Nguyen, Takuji W. Tsusaka (Examination Committee Members)

Abstract: OVOP has shown attractive benefits in developing the rural economy. Many literatures have focused on comparative the original OVOP in Japan and adopted versions of developing countries, and OVOP enterprises’ performance. This research aimed to fill the knowledge gap by exploring the policy impact on enterprises. The research used mixed-method approach to investigate in Surin province (representing successful OTOP implementation) and Nakhon Nayok province (representing less successful implementation), showing the different impact of policy implementation in both areas. For comprehensive data, the study collected data from relevant government agencies representatives. It further employed Yamane formular (5% error) to determine the sample size of enterprises based on the data of department of community development, 2019 and purposively collected data from enterprises members based on the data of enterprise leaders’ interview. The study also conducted in-depth interviews with leaders and focused group discussions with members to gain deeper understanding. Therefore, this included surveys of 74 enterprise leaders and 177 enterprise members, interviews with 10 key informants and 34 enterprise leaders, and focus group discussions with approximately 150 participants from 34 enterprises. This research examined the impact of Thailand’s OTOP policy on value-added practices, revealing significant benefits such as improved practices and expanded market access through government-provided training and fairs, which enabled business growth. However, limitations arose from a complex government hierarchy, budget constraints, and participant-specific challenges like financial and skill gaps. Notably, the study highlighted contrasting OTOP implementations between Surin, a success case reliant on women-led craft businesses and government fairs, and Nakhon Nayok, where independent, business-planned enterprises thrived. Recommendations include tailored skill training, enhanced monitoring systems, improved government collaboration, and programs designed to address the specific needs of women participants. Future research should expand geographically, focus on specific industries, explore correlations with other policies, monitor alignment with national plans, and investigate marketing, customer behavior, and climate change responses.

Scholarship Donor(s): Royal Thai Government; AIT Scholarship

Note: A dissertation submitted in patial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Development Planning Management and Innovation

Advisory: Full-text is available at https://library.ait.ac.th/ (accessible to local ip address only)

Search keywords index: Viritpol Ponark From raw materials to finished products : the challenges of Thai OTOP enterprises in selected provinces in Thailand Development Planning Management and Innovation (DPMI) Rural development–Thailand–Community development–Thailand–Cooperative societies–Thailand