Assessing the Socio-Economic Sustainability of Sugarcane Harvesting in Thailand

The study aimed to assess the socio-economic impacts via employment and paid wage/income for sugarcane production in Thailand due to the mechanization of the harvesting system. The results indicated that the employment level and income of the workers depend on the yield, employment types (temporary or permanent worker) and the skill of workers. These factors need to be considered to prepare for the promotion and support of sustainable agriculture farming by switching from manual to mechanical harvesting which may be established in the near future. Moreover, the training for upskill and reskill of mechanical harvesting and other local jobs should be provided by the government and private sectors to facilitate the workers transition from manual to mechanical harvesting. A list of strategies, plans, and recommendations have also been provided to eliminate the weaknesses and threats of changing to mechanized harvesting which can help to improve the socio-economic situation of the stakeholders in the sugarcane industry.