CHIANG RAI – Maize farmers across Thailand are expressing growing frustration over dropping crop prices and the import of cheap, genetically modified maize from the United States.
Large groups in Chiang Rai, Nakhon Sawan and Phetchabun have taken to the streets, carrying banners criticizing government trade decisions and demanding officials look into these pressing issues. Many say they can’t cover their costs any longer. Farmers point to a new trade deal with the United States, accusing authorities of favouring big companies over local livelihoods.
On 18 August, hundreds from the Mae Yao, Doi Hang, and Mae Khao Tom areas rallied outside Chiang Rai’s provincial hall, holding signs that read “No GMO Maize” and “Save Thai Farmers”.
Similar protests broke out in Nakhon Sawan and Phetchabun, all with a common demand: action from the government. Prices have dropped to just 4.70-4.80 baht per kilogram, down from 7 baht only two years ago. After paying for labour and supplies, local growers like Maiya Chermuen are left with only 3 baht per kilo, which is not enough to keep their farms running.
“The prices have never been this low in my memory,” Maiya told the Chiang Rai Times. “I can’t pay anyone to help. I have to do every job myself just to try to save money but still fall short.”
Farmers in the region share similar stories, saying that feed factories in Thailand have either lowered the prices they’re offering or stopped buying from local sources altogether. Many blame this on a flood of cheaper US GMO maize coming in.
The Impact of US GMO Maize Imports
The crisis has intensified with a recent deal that made it easier to import US GMO maize. In April 2025, the Thai government cut import taxes on US corn to help reduce the feed costs for livestock producers. These changes followed a short suspension of high US tariffs.
The Feed Mill Association, which speaks for the country’s top feed producers, has pushed for buying US agricultural goods, including over $1.1 billion worth of corn each year, to help balance a $35.4 billion trade surplus with the US.
This policy, designed to reduce animal feed costs and maintain strong trade links, has made life harder for local farmers. The National Farmers Council warns these imports could set off a repeat of what happened to the soybean sector when cheap imports wiped out domestic growers.
Termsak Booncheun, who heads the Nakhon Ratchasima Farmers Council, said the decision seems intended to lower prices and give US imports the upper hand. He called for the Department of Internal Trade to check if feed mills were working together to lower local prices since 9 June 2025, when a halt in buying was declared.
Protest Actions and Demands for Change
Maize Farmers in Chiang Rai handed a letter to provincial officials, asking for maize prices of 7 baht per kilo for produce at 30% moisture and public talks between the government, feed companies and farmer groups. Deputy Governor Prasong La-aon accepted the letter and promised to share it with the relevant ministries.
Still, farmers are wary. “We’ve gone back home but we’re paying close attention,” said Somkhit Phinyo, a leader of the protest. “If nothing changes, we’ll return.”
In Phetchabun, the protests became more intense. On 18 August, hundreds gathered, warning the government they would step up protests if demands were ignored by Friday. They called for compensation of 7.50 baht for every kilogram for the next three years to cover their losses from US imports, pointing out that over 450,000 farming families are affected.
Previous commitments from the Feed Mill Association to pay 9.80 baht per kilo for corn with 14.5% moisture have not held up, with current prices under 9 baht and strict quotas introduced.
Nakhon Sawan’s farmers echoed these requests and pointed to wider effects on local economies. Businesses that support farmers, from seed sellers to transport companies, are feeling the impact. “It doesn’t just stop with us,” one local grower said. “When we can’t earn a living, everyone in the area feels it.”
Trade with the US: Risks and Rewards
This crisis comes as Thailand moves to firm up its trade ties with the United States, its biggest export market. Last year, the country reported an $18.3 billion trade surplus with the US, which sparked talks to avoid steep US import taxes.
The Feed Mill Association backed imports of $2.8 billion in US farm goods, including corn, soybean meal and by-products like ethanol, to help even out trade. The government is now considering lower tariffs on a range of US farm imports, making them even more competitive.
These steps could lower livestock feed costs by up to 8% in Thailand, but they also threaten the incomes of local growers. Thailand uses around 9 million metric tons of corn each year, importing nearly half.
US corn costs $254 per ton, far less than what Thailand pays for imports from Myanmar or Laos. Although this saves money for feed companies, many farmers say the government did not consult them on the three-million-tonne deal to bring in GMO corn, leaving them exposed.
Apart from economic struggles, farmers also worry about environmental effects. The National Farmers Council points to increased herbicide use, pest resistance and possible disease spread to local crops as risks linked to GMO maize.
The Ministry of Commerce says safety checks are in place, citing years of GMO soybean imports as proof. Nonetheless, skepticism remains among farmers who say imported US corn, bred for cooler settings, may not suit Thai farms, but its lower cost still harms the local market.
Farmers want the government to guarantee fair prices, make sure feed mills buy from local growers fairly, and rethink import rules. Protesters in Phetchabun propose offering payments based on registered farm size to provide short-term relief.
In Chiang Rai, calls for talks with all sides point to a need for more open decision-making. Authorities have increased checks at borders to limit illegal maize shipments, but farmers say these actions are not enough.
As Thailand manages its changing relationship with the US, the struggles of maize growers highlight the need to balance trade and rural incomes. With more protests planned and official inquiries expected, pressure is building on the government to offer real support.
For growers like Maiya Chermuen, the need is simple: “We just want a fair price so we can keep farming. This is our life.”
