Abstract:
The objective of this thesis is to analyze the problems of Longkong farmers, the requirements to
effectively sell Longkong, the level of knowledge and the techniques needed to sell through E-Commerce (Alibaba). It is
geared for the farmers in Southern Thailand to have the ability and capability to export Longkong through Alibaba. The
methodology used in this thesis is qualitative research. In-depth interviews were conducted to the research group that
was categorized and sub-divided into three sub-groups as follows: 1. Longkong farmers from Nakhon Sri Thammarat
province. 2. Representatives from the Ministry of Commerce and the Department of Agriculture. 3. Representatives
from Alibaba Thailand, representatives from Alipay and representatives from shipping and logistic companies in
Thailand. There was a total of 15 respondents.
Research findings would illustrate that the problems of Longkong farmers are as follows: 1. Longkong
is easily detached from the fruit bunch. 2. Longkong is easily perishable. 3. Pre-harvest factors such a excessive rain and
water causes the Longkon peel to crack. Additional problems discovered would show that means of selling Longkong
have very limited channels. In addition, due to very low market price that affects the bottom line of the farmers, proper
soil maintenance and management is not implemented by the farmers on the fruit orchards as it would result in
additional cost burdens. Another problem is managing the fruit itself. Longkong requires a storage temperature of 15-18
degrees Celsius and a typical storage life at this temparure would only last for 28-30 days-a condition that is very
difficult to achieve. Exporting Longkong would require as follows: 1. Exporting through E-Commerce like Alibaba
would need a certain level of technology. Most Longkong farmers are senior citizens who have limited know-how in
using E-Commerce technology like Alibaba. 2. Exporting Longkong would also entail certain technical requirements
and documents among them are GAP (Good Agricultural Practice) Certificate, Certificate of Origin (CO), Certificate of
the Processing Facility or approved plant number, AQSIQ Certificate, CN Number and Exporter Registration
Certificate. 3. Alibaba membership requires a membership fee of 56,200 Baht for every 5 types of products to be sold
per year. 4. In addition, if one wants to sell through Alibaba, one has to apply and register as an Exporter with the
Department of Foreign Trade, every export has to be accompanied by a Phytosanitary Certificate issued by the
Department of Agriculture, an export permit to be issued by the Customs Department, together with the normal export
documents such as Invoice stating clearly the payment terms and conditions and Packing List. In summary, despite all
the hindrances and requirements, it is concluded that there is a possibility to export Longkong if Longkong farmers
would form cooperatives which has to be coupled with good government support.