CHIANG RAI – Governor Chucheep Phongchai recently led a special field visit. He traveled to the Wiang Kaen district on July 7, 2026. The main goal was to fully support the famous Wiang Kaen Pomelo.
This delicious fruit is now the 9th Geographical Indication (GI) product of Chiang Rai. This proud new title generates over 400 million baht yearly for the local community. It also makes Chiang Rai the province with the second-highest number of GI products in Thailand.
Key Takeaways
- Economic Boost: Wiang Kaen Pomelo brings over 400 million baht to the local economy every year.
- GI Recognition: The pomelo is now the 9th registered GI product for Chiang Rai province.
- Export Success: High-quality fruits are actively shipped to major global markets like China and Europe.
- Future Growth: Officials are currently pushing for Pang Khon Coffee to become the 10th GI product.
During this important visit, the governor was joined by key local officials. Permanent Secretary Supot Saenmee and District Chief Supot Langaweeranan were part of the group. They visited a well-known community business called “The River Craft” orchard.
This impressive farm covers over 40 rai in the Muang Yai subdistrict. The orchard focuses on growing premium pomelos that meet strict global standards. Because of their hard work, they successfully export their fresh harvest to major markets. Customers in China and Europe enjoy these high-quality fruits every single season.
The community farm is currently in the final steps of getting its official GI logo. This special brand mark will help control quality and increase the fruit’s retail value. After walking through the green farm, the busy team visited a local packing house. There, they inspected how the fresh fruits are carefully gathered and prepared for sale.
The Secret Behind the Sweet Taste
The Department of Intellectual Property officially registered the Wiang Kaen Pomelo. The growing area covers four unique subdistricts: Muang Yai, Lai Ngao, Po, and Tha Kham. This special region is a natural basin filled with rich river soil.
Because of this perfect environment, the pomelo has a sweet, mellow, and very juicy taste. Three distinct fruit varieties received the respected GI status. These include the Khao Yai, Thong Dee, and Cellar varieties.
Today1,383 farming households are working in this growing region. Together, they produce a massive average of 25,130 tons of fruit every single year. This amazing output heavily supports the entire local rural economy.
Building Trust and Future Growth
Chiang Rai province has set clear and ambitious goals for the future. They are working hard to create a strong quality control and traceability system. This smart digital system will help build strong trust with modern buyers around the world. Consumers will easily know exactly where their sweet fruit comes from.
Local government officials also plan to expand new marketing channels for the hardworking farmers. This group effort will help spread wealth evenly throughout the local rural areas. Sustainable farming practices will make sure the land stays fertile for many years. The recent economic success of the pomelo is just the exciting beginning.
With nine GI products now officially recognized, the province is looking ahead. Leaders are rushing to promote Pang Khon Coffee next. They hope it will soon become Chiang Rai’s 10th GI product. This strategic plan aims to keep the local economy growing strong. By supporting local farmers, Chiang Rai continues to shine brightly on the world stage.
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