Thailand

Potato cultivation in Thailand is primarily concentrated in the northern provinces of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, where two distinct agro-ecological zones support varied production systems. In the hill regions (800–1,500 meters above sea level), ethnic communities such as the Meo and Lahu practice year-round, rainfed potato farming using recycled local seed, yielding approximately 8 tons per hectare through traditional, low-input methods.

In contrast, the lowland valleys (~300 meters above sea level) cultivate potatoes during the dry season following rice harvest, using irrigation and imported Dutch seed, achieving higher yields of around 11 tons per hectare. Lowland farmers benefit from modern inputs and agricultural extension services. Key potato varieties grown in Thailand include Spunta (valued for size and storability), Bintje, and Kennebec (preferred for processing). The country imports around 100–120 tons of seed potatoes annually from the Netherlands for use in lowland areas, while hill-valley systems typically recycle seed across seasons at a rate of approximately 700 kg per hectare.

Potato cultivation in Thailand began in the late 19th century, introduced to the northern highlands, likely from neighboring Burma (Myanmar) or southern China. Initial efforts focused on local varieties known as alu, valued for their resilience in upland conditions but criticized for poor taste and cooking quality, limiting their market potential.

A significant shift occurred in the mid-20th century with the introduction of European varieties, starting with the Dutch cultivar Bintje in 1955, followed by Spunta in 1969, both offering improved yields and commercial value.

Potatoes remained a minor crop until the 1980s, when government-led anti-opium substitution programs promoted them as alternative cash crops in the highlands. At the same time, the rise of tourism increased demand for Western-style cuisine, further driving domestic potato consumption.