Chiang Rai's Coffee Crops Threatened By Deadly Long-Horned Beetle

Thailand is implementing urgent measures to protect its valuable coffee crops in Chiang Rai and other northern provinces from a severe pest outbreak threatening thousands of local farms and rural livelihoods. The destructive long-horned beetle is causing significant financial risk to agricultural communities. Deputy Minister of Agriculture Piyarat Tiyapairat has launched a comprehensive educational campaign in Chiang Rai to combat the spread of the beetle, which targets premium Arabica coffee plantations. Coffee is a major economic driver in these regions, with the cool climate and high altitudes ideal for growing high-quality beans sought after globally. A recent government survey revealed that out of over 15,500 rai (approximately 2,480 hectares) of coffee fields in the north, nearly half are under serious threat. In Chiang Rai alone, over 7,600 rai (approximately 1,216 hectares) are infested, with Mueang Chiang Rai, Mae Suai, and Mae Chan districts under strict watch. Officials have identified 2,500 rai (approximately 400 hectares) in these critical zones requiring immediate government intervention. The financial impact on farming families is devastating, with estimated losses ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 baht per rai. Delayed action can lead to farmers losing between 25% and 56% of their harvest, making early detection crucial for business survival. The long-horned beetle poses a silent threat, with adult beetles laying eggs under the bark and larvae burrowing into the trunk, causing internal damage that is difficult to detect until trees show signs of distress, such as yellowing leaves and drying branches. If left unchecked, the pest can destroy up to 80% of a farm. In response, the Ministry of Agriculture is promoting eco-friendly integrated pest management (IPM) instead of harsh chemical sprays. This approach includes proper pruning to allow sunlight penetration and clearing away old, rotting wood where pests hide. A key weapon in this strategy is the natural fungus Metarhizium, which specifically targets the beetle without leaving harmful residues on the coffee beans, ensuring safety for the environment and farmers. The government is distributing over 1,000 kilograms of this fungus and, importantly, teaching local farmers how to produce it themselves. This empowers farmers to manage pest problems independently, reducing reliance on expensive chemicals and lowering operational costs. Protecting these mountain coffee farms is vital not only for the current harvest but also for securing a stable and prosperous future for thousands of families. Maintaining Thailand's reputation for high-quality Arabica coffee depends on successfully combating this outbreak. Through expert training and natural tools, Chiang Rai farmers are equipped to protect their crops, incomes, and communities, ensuring Thailand continues to produce the beloved coffee enjoyed worldwide.