Adoption and cost-effectiveness of digital climate advisory services among smallholder rice farming in Myanmar

This study evaluates the adoption and cost-effectiveness of Digital Climate Advisory Services (DCAS) delivered through the Htwet Toe (HT) mobile application among smallholder rice farmers in the Ayeyarwady Region of Myanmar. Using a multi-stage sampling design, 484 rice farmers across six townships (three treatment and three control) were surveyed following the 2024 monsoon season. Adoption determinants were estimated using probit regression models, while economic returns were assessed through a partial equilibrium economic surplus framework under a small open-economy assumption. Results indicate that exposure to climate hazards, access to agricultural credit, and perceived usability of the application significantly increase the likelihood of advisory-responsive behavior. Yield gains were observed among treatment farmers, though income effects were moderated by higher input costs. The economic surplus analysis shows a positive net present value and high benefit–cost ratio, indicating that DCAS represents a cost-effective climate adaptation strategy in conventional monsoon rice systems. Findings contribute empirical evidence on digital advisory adoption and return on investment in fragile, climate-vulnerable contexts.