Farm mechanization policy in Thailand

Impacts on output, employment, income, and income distribution remain unclear and inconclusive. While farm mechanization in Thailand has increased greatly in recent years, it remains at a very low level, reflected in the low horsepower per ha (0.25) and the low machine density per 1000 ha ratios. The highest level of mechanization proportionately has been achieved in the Central Plain region, while the South and Northeast regions have undergone relatively little mechanization. Despite the absence of specific policies for farm mechanization, many economic policies directly and indirectly affect the utilization of machines and the farm machinery industry. Many policies are inefficient and ineffective, while others have adverse influences on certain sectors. It is concluded that improvement of simple farm equipment used in rainfed areas should be given higher priority. Appended are 5 tables and a 32-item bibliography (1971-83). (Author abstract, modified)