An analysis of land consolidation projects in Thailand compared with Japanese experiences

To analyze the characteristics of land consolidation projects in Thailand, We surveyed extensive and intensive projects in the Chao Phraya Delta in Thailand, and one intensive project in Japan. These results are compared each other mainly from the viewpoint of land holdings and field layout and farmers' incentives. This study clarifies that (1) an extensive project is feasible in Thailand because the average plot size is relatively large, since most Thai farmers gather their land in a plot; (2) plot size is critical with regard to the advantageousness of the extensive type in comparison with the intensive type of consolidation; and (3) it is hard to provide incentive for upstream farmers to participate in a land consolidation project, since they have had the advantage in irrigation and drainage activity under the present plot-to-plot system. (4) We recommend using the direct buying system to obtain common land in an extensive project as a way of eliminating one of the difficulties in getting farmers' consensus for the project.