Bangkok: BAAC (Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives) is taking significant strides towards enhancing rural development by utilizing digital technology, positioning itself as a contender for the Government Agency of the Year award.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Paisarn Hongthong, Deputy Manager and Spokesperson of BAAC, discussed the bank’s strategic initiatives on MCOT NEWS FM 100.5 following its qualification for the Thailand Top Vote 2025 competition. He emphasized BAAC’s commitment to fostering rural growth through funding and financial advisory services. The bank’s 2025 agenda focuses on transforming into a sustainable rural development bank by integrating digital solutions such as the BAAC Mobile app and the Business Matching platform. These innovations aim to streamline service efficiency and bridge the gap between agricultural producers and urban consumers, addressing marketing challenges and broadening sales avenues for farmers.
The Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives has introduced measures to support farmers across four key areas: offering low-interest funding, enhancing marketing efforts, adding value to agricultural products, and embracing innovation. A notable initiative is the “Khao Un Im” (Warm and Full Rice), a ready-to-eat rice with an 18-month shelf life. This product has been instrumental in flood relief efforts in southern Thailand and in supporting personnel along the Thai-Cambodian border, showcasing the potential of agricultural processing in addressing pricing issues and resource utilization during crises.
Moreover, BAAC is utilizing its extensive network of over 20,000 employees nationwide to serve as consultants and facilitators, linking educational institutions’ innovations to community needs. This approach aids in reducing production costs and stabilizing the agricultural sector. BAAC also encourages public participation in the Thailand Top Vote, inviting citizens to cast their votes in eight categories, including “Outstanding Government Agency of the Year.” The shortlisted agencies include the Provincial Waterworks Authority, the Department of Land, the Central Investigation Bureau, BAAC, and the Government Housing Bank. Voting is accessible via the PromptPost application until January 25, 2026, with one free vote per day and additional votes available at 6 baht each.
A BAAC spokesperson urged the public to support their bid by voting with the code S4, highlighting that each vote contributes to the ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life for Thai farmers.