Mr. Teeradet Onkeng, Senior General Manager of CPRAM Co., Ltd., revealed that, “CP RAM prioritizes developing raw material sources from the source, because the quality of ready-to-eat food starts in the planting plot, not just in the factory. The ‘Farmer Partner Project’ is designed to work systematically with farmers, from production planning and knowledge transfer to technological support and upgrading cultivation standards according to GAP principles. This ensures safe, high-quality raw materials that meet the needs of industrial production. Khon Kaen is considered a strategic area for the project because it has the potential of its farmers, a location connected to the CPRAM Khon Kaen kitchen, and the readiness to develop a raw material source near its production base. This improves supply chain efficiency in terms of freshness, production volume, quality control, and logistics costs. At the same time, farmers have a clear market, allowing them to plan production and create stable income, aligning with the Charoen Pokphand Group’s three-benefit principle.”

Ms. Jamjuree Kaewsai, Assistant General Manager of CPRAM Co., Ltd., added, “The heart of the ‘Khon Kaen Model’ is transforming traditional farming methods into a standardized upstream raw material production system connected to market demand, becoming precision and meticulous agriculture.” Farmers participating in the project receive support ranging from knowledge and technology transfer, such as soil preparation, water management, pest control according to GAP standards, harvesting, to sorting produce before processing in the factory. This ensures consistent quality, safety, and traceability of basil. Currently, the project in Khon Kaen province has over 17 participating farmers, supporting the production of approximately 130 kilograms of basil leaves per day. This reflects CPRAM's role in managing the upstream supply chain while concretely building the grassroots economy throughout the ‘Farmer Partner Project’. CPRAM doesn't stop at promoting standardized cultivation; it also continues to develop basil varieties, especially those with a unique aroma and intense spicy flavor, different from typical basil on the market. These varieties are also suitable for commercial production because they grow quickly, yield well, and are resistant to weather conditions, diseases, and insects. This reduces risks for farmers and increases the consistency of raw materials before entering CPRAM kitchens. This is another important mechanism in upgrading local raw materials to the standards of the ready-to-eat food industry and strengthening the country's food security from the upstream in a tangible way.”

Mr. Yutthapoom Yowa, a model farmer in the Farmer Partner Project in Khon Kaen province, said, “Before this, I planted lemongrass and other crops in a mixed system, which had high costs.” "Traditional farming is labor-intensive. In early 2026, I had the opportunity to participate in basil cultivation training with a group of farmers in Khon Kaen province. Seeing the potential and opportunities, and the potential to mitigate past problems in farming, I joined CP Ram's 'Farmer Partner' project. The CP Ram agricultural technical team came to see the actual plots, from soil preparation and planting schedule to watering and fertilizing, as well as providing important knowledge and training. This resulted in consistently high-quality basil in terms of aroma, color, and size, supplying CP Ram Khon Kaen kitchens. This has significantly increased my family's income and allowed me to generate over 25% profit from basil cultivation. I see a bright and stable future ahead. What I'm most proud of is that the project has also encouraged people in my village and elderly people without income to help with harvesting and sorting basil leaves, providing income and improving their quality of life."

**Developing domestic raw material sources still faces many uncertainties, including energy costs, production factors, and the impact of climate change. Having a network of farmers who consistently produce quality raw materials is a crucial mechanism for building resilience in the food chain.** The Farmer Partner project aligns with CP Ram's Food 3S principles: Food Safety, Food Security, and Food Sustainability. This initiative aims to elevate farmers from "growers" to "modern agricultural entrepreneurs" who can systematically plan production, calculate costs, and control farm quality. This will positively impact household income, quality of life, and community resilience in the long term.

Developing domestic raw material sources still faces uncertainties, including energy costs, production factors, and climate impacts. Having a network of farmers who consistently produce quality raw materials is therefore a crucial mechanism for building resilience in the food chain. The "Farmer Partner" project aligns with CPRAM's Food 3S principles: Food Safety, Food Security, and Food Sustainability. It aims to transform farmers from "growers" to "modern agricultural entrepreneurs" who can systematically plan production, calculate costs, and control farm quality, resulting in increased income, improved household quality of life, and stronger communities in the long term.

"What CPRAM wants is not just sufficient raw materials for production, but to create a food industry that grows alongside farmers and communities. When farmers have skills and stable incomes, the country's food chain will become stronger. The 'Khon Kaen Model' is another effort reflecting CPRAM's approach to developing the food business while sustainably upgrading the grassroots economy. It will be expanded to all regions where CPRAM kitchens are located throughout the country, demonstrating our commitment to excellence in the food industry." "Caring for the community, the environment, and society can truly move forward together," Mr. Teeradet said before his passing.

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