The Impact of Smart Farming Technology on Agricultural Productivity: Evidence from a Large-scale Database in Thailand

Thailand 4.0 is a national strategy focused on integrating digital technologies and innovation to drive economic development in Thailand. The agricultural sector, a vital part of the economy, plays a crucial role in this strategy. One key initiative is the smart farming project, which aims to enhance agricultural productivity. This study aims to examine the impact of Thailand’s smart farming project on agricultural productivity within the context of this policy. In pursuit of this objective, the study adopts a quantitative research methodology, employing a comprehensive analysis of secondary data. The data utilized in the study is obtained from reliable sources, namely the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council and the FAOSTAT database. This dataset spans the period from 2006 to 2020 and undergoes meticulous analysis through the application of a specified equation. The study findings demonstrate that higher growth rates of total output relative to total inputs result in noticeable improvements in agricultural total factor productivity. This positive outcome can be attributed to the significant influence exerted by Thailand 4.0 and smart farming policies. Consequently, the adoption of smart farming practices in Thailand leads to significant advancements in agricultural productivity. Based on these results, the study provides valuable insights into the implications of Thailand 4.0 for agricultural development and offers recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders. These recommendations involve strategies to leverage digital technologies in agriculture, promote innovation, enhance digital literacy and skills among farmers, and address challenges that hinder the effective implementation of digital transformation initiatives. Keywords: Thailand 4.0 policy, smart framing, agricultural total factor productivity, innovation, sustainable development