Bangkok (VNA) – The Thai government, in partnership with technology giant Meta, has launched a free training programme on artificial intelligence (AI) and online business skills for farmers and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in agriculture, aiming to accelerate digital transformation in the grassroots economy, reduce reliance on intermediaries, and increase incomes.
Thai Deputy Government Spokesperson Patdarasmi Thongsalaikorn said the initiative is jointly organised by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and Meta – the parent company of Facebook and Instagram.
The programme will provide free in-person and online training for at least 2,000 farmers and agricultural SMEs, focusing on how to build business brands on Facebook and Instagram, create engaging digital content, and use Meta's AI tools to boost sales and expand customer base.
According to the Thai government, farmers' profits have been squeezed by their dependence on traders and intermediaries in the distribution chain. The programme is therefore designed to equip producers with digital skills that enable them to reach consumers directly, increase the value of their products, and access international markets.
The Thai Prime Minister's Office said the initiative forms part of Meta's regional campaign to support small businesses across 12 Asia-Pacific economies. The training content has been tailored to Thailand's market conditions and consumer behaviour to help small businesses build sustainable online operations while generating additional income for households and local communities. /.
