A Comparison of Agricultural Cooperatives in Japan and Thailand

Download or read book A Comparison of Agricultural Cooperatives in Japan and Thailand written by Ratchanee Mukhjang and published by . This book was released on 2013 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The primary objective of development is to enhance the quality of live but the preceding development process with the use of the striking technological revolutions and the modernization of extraction industries have not result in well-being of people everywhere. Sustainable development is the main desirable for the world's nation. Cooperatives could form a particularly significant mechanism for the development of the marginalized sections of the society since they have strong ties to local communities. There are a lot of research reports related to agricultural cooperatives in Thailand and Japan but there are very few studies that compare the performance of the agricultural cooperatives in these two countries especially for case studies. Moreover, this research project went into the field work in Aichi prefecture in Japan. As a descriptive survey research, data collection was done during April, 2008 to June, 2011. In addition, the observation units for quantitative data are annual reports of these cooperatives. The qualitative data are obtained from indebt interview with mangers, board members and government involved. Furthermore, secondary data were used. This comparative study analyzed from the institutional economic perspectives, so the framework starts with the independent variables called institutional factors namely top down orientation, the structure of the board, the government policies, spirit of cooperation. Results of the study show that only the first factor, the top-down policy is alike while the others are different. JA- Aichihigashi run along different lines to Tawangpha and Watchan agricultural cooperatives. By comparison, the performances of the two agricultural cooperatives in Thailand are less than those in Japan. Cash deposit is the most important business for them. Tawangpa agricultural cooperative in particular create a network with a private company, support a woman group, use a radio station to make a closer relationship with their members. Moreover, the managers was selected to join the international training program. Apart from sale and purchase, the JA do the interesting business and services including banking, insurance - the highest value business, training, funeral , marriage counseling , farm guidance - it is unique. About the significant financial ratio that represent the capital strength, asset quality, earning and liquidity are 1.83,1.4, 3.96 and 0.987 respectively for Tawangpa agricultural cooperative. As for Watjun agricultural cooperative, those ratios are 0.79, 1.47, 1.37 and 1.49 respectively. Apart from that, the ratios for JA Aichihigashi are 0.91, 0.18, 17.57 and 1.05 respectively. What this study has suggested are that the agricultural cooperatives in Thailand should provide more activities for members - from the cradle to the grave like in Japan. For example, they should, more important, they should apply the principles of the philosophy - Sufficiency Economy, bestowed by His Majesty the King.