As global attention turns towards sustainable agricultural practices, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) organised the policy forum titled “Strengthening Thailand’s Low-Emission Rice Market: Learnings from the Thai Rice NAMA Project” in Bangkok. The forum gathered key stakeholders, including policymakers, scientists, and representatives from various sectors. The policy forum aimed to address and deliberate on the critical developments and challenges in transitioning towards low-emission rice production in Thailand. It represents a pivotal moment for stakeholders invested in sustainable agriculture and climate mitigation strategies for transformational change in the Thai rice sector.

Dr Bjoern Ole Sander, IRRI Representative to Thailand, stated, “Agriculture ranks as Thailand’s second-highest source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, following the energy sector. Notably, rice cultivation accounts for approximately 55% of the agricultural emissions, predominantly methane, making it a crucial target for low-emissions development. Launched in August 2018, the Thai Rice NAMA Project is spearheading the transition to low-emission rice production in Thailand, demonstrating that large-scale application of GHG-reducing technologies is possible. This initiative deploys a tri-fold strategy encompassing low-emission rice production technologies, mitigation technology services, and the development of supportive policies and measures.”

Dr Chitnucha Buddhaboon, Deputy Director-General of the Rice Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, expressed, “This event is an important milestone for the impactful collaboration between the Rice Department, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, GIZ, the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), and partners from various ministerial agencies, universities, and the private sector. The aim is to enhance Thailand’s rice production efficiency and transition towards low-emission rice cultivation by utilising an array of climate-friendly rice production technologies. This gathering is an important opportunity to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and offer suggestions, with a particular focus on the systematic development of a Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system, which is envisioned to provide better insights in rice production practices, facilitate linkages with the market, and add value to rice production through greenhouse gas savings. The forum featured a series of seminars on the MRV system in the context of rice production, supporting Thailand’s ambition to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.”

The Thai Rice NAMA project can be regarded as a showcase initiative for transforming rice production systems in Thailand. Insights and lessons from the project are expected to significantly inform and enhance the forthcoming Thai Rice GCF project. The MRV system and advanced low-emission rice farming technologies demonstrate the project’s commitment to sustainable agricultural progress and climate-smart practices for transforming Thailand’s rice sector.