Pomelo export logistics process: modern factors of efficiency (the case of wiang kaen district, chiang rai province, Thailand)

Abstract

The objective of this research is to study the logistics process and problems of the quality of pomelos for export in Wiang Kaen district, Chiang Rai province. Applied research methodology was used in this research. In-depth interview was conducted to collect qualitative data. Content analysis was employed to analyze data collected. From the research, it was found that Wiang Kaen Pomelo Community Enterprise for Export has the cultivation area of approximately 1,000 rai (160 ha). The logistics process of pomelos in WiangKaen district can be classified into 3 main phases which are raw materials, cultivation process and finished goods. In raw materials, the most common type of pomelo cultivated is Thongdee. In cultivation process, pomelo trees are planted from May to June. Irrigation is done through sprinklers every 10 days. Fertilizerapplication for trees aged 1-4 years is done by applying chemical fertilizer 15-15-15, 300-500 grams per tree for every 2 months, together with manure. Copper is sprayed to prevent Canker disease. In finished goods, harvesting is carried out in 3 periods. The quality of products will be graded according to weight. Top export markets of pomelos in Wiang Kaen are China, followed by the European Union countries.

COMPARISON OF POMELO (<I>CITRUS MAXIMA</I>) GROWN IN CHINA AND THAILAND

“…Thong Dee or Kao Thong Dee is the predominant commercial cultivar in Thailand sold in domestic, Asian and EU markets [30,31] . It can grow well in most regions occupying about 35% of the total planting area [32] .…”

“…Export of Thai pomelos to EU markets increased from very low values during 2016-2018 to about 1.7% of the total export value in 2019 [83,85] . However, exports to EU countries are uncertain due to limitations in marketing and phytosanitary standards concerning citrus canker (Xanthomonas campestris (all strains pathogenic to citrus)) [30,31] . In addition to phytosanitary considerations, food safety and consistency of fruit quality also limit the export of Thai pomelos.…”

“…In the EU and US, consumers prefer juicy, sweet and sour pomelos that are like grapefruit as these are more familiar to them, and they almost exclusively require red-fleshed cultivars high in carotenoids [87] . Thong Dee is therefore the cultivar most favored by Thai and international consumers [31] .…”