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BAFE Studies Thailand Market for PH Food Hubs

May 29, 2026 1,439

Rows of fresh vegetables, fruits, and seafood moved nonstop through one of Thailand’s busiest food trading centers as buyers, farmers, and delivery trucks worked around the clock. For Philippine agriculture officials visiting the site, the scene offered a glimpse of how modern systems can help strengthen food distribution and reduce waste in local markets.

Delegates from the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Engineering (BAFE) recently visited the well-known Simumuang Market in Thailand, a large wholesale trading hub that handles more than 8,000 tons of fresh produce daily across its 55-hectare complex.

The visit formed part of efforts to study possible improvements for future food hub projects and agri-fisheries supply chains in the Philippines. Officials observed the market’s operations, including its zoning system, logistics management, cold storage facilities, sustainability programs, and quality control measures.

According to BAFE, the market serves thousands of vendors, buyers, farmers, and businesses every day through an organized trading system designed to speed up the movement of agricultural products while maintaining freshness and quality.

The delegation also explored how Thailand manages food storage and transportation using modern cold chain systems. Cold storage and proper handling are considered critical in preventing spoilage, especially for fruits, vegetables, fish, and other highly perishable products.

Agriculture experts have long pointed out that post-harvest losses remain a major challenge in the Philippines. Poor storage facilities, transportation delays, and weak logistics systems can lead to wasted produce and lower income for farmers and fisherfolk.

During the visit, BAFE officials studied Simumuang Market’s laboratory testing systems, organized trading operations, and solar-powered facilities. The market also implements waste reduction measures and sustainability programs aimed at improving efficiency while reducing environmental impact.

Officials said some of the operational strategies used in Thailand may help guide future agricultural infrastructure projects in the Philippines. Discussions included possible collaboration in market management, sustainable infrastructure development, and improving supply chain efficiency.

The Department of Agriculture continues to push for modernization projects that can help farmers gain better access to markets while ensuring stable food supply for consumers. Improving logistics and reducing food losses are among the government’s priorities in strengthening food security nationwide.

Modern food hubs are expected to play an important role in connecting producers directly to buyers, reducing unnecessary middle costs, and improving the overall movement of agricultural goods across regions.

For many Filipino farmers and fisherfolk, better market systems could mean higher earnings, less waste, and faster delivery of products to consumers. Officials believe lessons from successful agricultural trading centers abroad may help the country develop more resilient and efficient food distribution networks in the years ahead.

As the Philippines continues to face challenges in food supply and rising costs, investments in modern infrastructure and sustainable market systems are seen as important steps toward a stronger agri-fisheries sector.

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