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On 5 May 2026, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siwaret Arikit, Director of the Rice Science Center, together with the center's research team, welcomed Mr. Masaaki Taira, former Minister of Digital Affairs of Japan and a member of the House of Representatives, who currently holds an important position in the Japanese government on cybersecurity and digital policy, together with a delegation of representatives from government agencies, including the Embassy of Japan in Thailand, with Mr. Yoshimitsu Kuboki, Third Secretary (Economic), as part of the delegation, as well as representatives from the private sector and Japanese international organizations, who visited and studied the Rice Science Center's research and innovation.
The delegation received a briefing on the overall mission of the Rice Science Center, which focuses on developing complete rice knowledge and technology, from breeding and plot management, through the use of biotechnology and digital technology, to transferring knowledge to farmers, under the concepts of Smart Agriculture and Climate-Smart Agriculture.
The delegation also visited the demonstration area and operation of the “New Pla-kun underground water storage system”, a water management innovation that increases field-level water storage efficiency, reduces water loss from evaporation, and helps maintain proper soil moisture balance, lowering production costs and increasing yield stability for farmers, especially in areas facing drought and climate variability.
The discussion also covered opportunities for cooperation in research and development of modern agricultural technology, such as applying big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital systems to make rice production efficient, transparent and traceable, in line with the digital and food security policies of both countries.
This visit is another important step in strengthening the close relationship between Thailand and Japan, especially in science, technology and agricultural innovation cooperation, to jointly drive sustainable development and raise the quality of life of farmers at the international level.
The welcome was warm and dignified, reflecting the Rice Science Center's potential as the country's source of rice knowledge and innovation, which continues to attract interest from many countries.
Source: Facebook Rice Science Center
