Challenges and constraints to the sustainability of poultry farming in Thailand

Sawitree Wongtangtintharn^1, *, Sudpradthana Chakkhambang², Padsakorn Pootthachaya¹, Anusorn Cherdthong¹, Metha Wanapat³

¹Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand

²LinQ Technology Corporation, Chachoengsao, Thailand

³Tropical Feed Resources Research and Development Center (TROFREC), Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand

^*Corresponding Author: Sawitree Wongtangtintharn, Tel: +66-4320-2362, E-mail: sawiwo@kku.ac.th

Parts of this review were presented at Animal Bioscience Forum 2024 on Animal Biosciences to Improve Animal Health and Production- Challenges and constraints to the sustainability of Asian poultry farming (August 28, 2024), which was supported by Pathway Intermediates (http://www.pathwayintermediates.com).

Received October 03, 2024       Revised October 31, 2024       Accepted February 25, 2025

Copyright © 2025 by Animal Bioscience

This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Abstract

The poultry farming industry in Thailand plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy and food security. However, its long-term sustainability is challenged by disease outbreaks, environmental concerns, rising feed costs, market fluctuations, and shifting consumer preferences. This review examines the current state of poultry farming in Thailand, focusing on broilers, layers, and ducks. Disease control requires strict biosecurity measures and government interventions. Additionally, the industry must address environmental concerns by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and optimizing resource efficiency to align with Thailand’s net-zero targets. The rising demand for organic and ethically produced poultry products presents both market opportunities and production challenges, necessitating significant adjustments in farming practices. Regulatory compliance, particularly in export markets, adds another layer of complexity, requiring Thai poultry producers to meet increasingly stringent international standards. The adoption of new technologies, such as precision farming and artificial intelligence-driven systems, presents both opportunities and challenges, especially for smaller producers who may struggle to keep pace with advancements. Rising feed costs, driven by global supply chain disruptions and dependence on imported raw materials, pose a significant economic burden, emphasizing the need for alternative protein sources such as insect-based feed and agro-industrial by-products. Furthermore, regulatory compliance with international standards and consumer-driven trends toward antibiotic-free and organic poultry products further shape the industry’s transformation. To ensure sustainable development, Thailand’s poultry sector must integrate innovative technologies, adopt environmentally friendly practices, and strengthen collaboration between the government, industry stakeholders, and researchers. The industry can maintain its global competitiveness by addressing these challenges while contributing to sustainable food production and environmental conservation.

Keywords: Policy; Poultry; Production; Sustainability; Transformation