A Journey Through Thailand’s Agricultural Diversity and the Inaugural Ceremony of CENTRIGO Center
Last week, Alexander Berkovskiy, the Regional Director for AMEA (Asia, Middle East, Africa), embarked on a remarkable journey to Thailand, renowned as the “Rice Bowl of Asia” for its extensive rice cultivation. However, beyond its rice fields, Thailand boasts a rich agricultural tapestry adorned with tropical fruits and a diverse array of vegetables.
The focal point of Berkovskiy’s expedition was the inaugural ceremony of CENTRIGO, a pioneering agricultural center situated in Thailand’s northeastern region. CENTRIGO stands as a beacon of comprehensive agricultural solutions, offering farmers access to seeds, crop protection products, fertilizers, technical services, and avenues for selling their produce. The primary objective of this facility is to empower farmers, particularly in enhancing the yield and quality of chili peppers, facilitating smoother exports to China in collaboration with esteemed partners like Sitiphon Laohawanich, a prominent chili pepper trader in the region.
During his interactions with local farmers, Berkovskiy encountered the remarkable journey of Daeng, whose narrative epitomizes the resilience ingrained in Thai agriculture. From humble beginnings of assisting her mother in the pepper fields at the age of 10 to becoming a farm owner at 55, Daeng’s unwavering commitment and adaptability showcase the essence of Thai farming. Despite grappling with challenges such as prolonged droughts and escalating pest pressures, Daeng’s embrace of innovative solutions has not only safeguarded her crops but also bolstered yields amidst adversity.
Among the myriad engagements, a poignant farewell to Berkovskiy’s esteemed colleague, Sunisa Chatuporn, left an indelible mark. With an illustrious 38-year career spanning various pivotal roles within the company, including Regulatory, Technical Support, Sales, and Marketing across the APAC region, Sunisa’s contributions have been monumental. Her mentorship and expertise have not only propelled numerous colleagues to greater heights but also enriched the organizational ethos with a spirit of inclusivity and collaboration.
Berkovskiy extends heartfelt gratitude to Kluaymai (Grace) N. and the entire country leadership team for orchestrating a profoundly impactful journey, underscoring the commitment to advancing agricultural innovation and empowering farmers in Thailand’s vibrant agricultural landscape.
