Agricultural Transformation within the Modern Industrial Zone of Nam Phong District, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand
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Abstract
Research on the agricultural transformation of the developing world seems to polarize in two directions. In one, peasantry persists in the midst of capitalism; in the other, the focus is on agricultural modernization. This article examines agricultural transformation in the context of industrial relocation into rural areas. It focuses on how established industries implicate and restructure the agrarian relations of agricultural communities adjacent to industrial estates. Empirical data were drawn from qualitative community studies. In depth interviews were conducted with two local authorities, nine small farming operators, four formal community leaders, and eight informal leaders. In addition, focus group discussions were conducted with 17 participants. We argue that agricultural transformation has intensified the use of modern inputs along with the adoption of cash crops and the production of agricultural commodities oriented toward markets. The relocation of industries into rural areas lowers urban migration; however, the agricultural labor shortage is increasing. Agrarian relations are largely structured around agribusiness credit institutions and credit packages, while land concentration remains minimal. Finally, rural communities have become urbanized.
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Chart. (Pseudonym). (2020, August 13). Interview. Farmer in Sa-at sub-district, Nam Phong district, Khon Kaen province, Thailand.
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