The Department of Agricultural Extension is accelerating the upgrade of "black-skinned and off-size mangosteen," a quality product from Chanthaburi orchards, to "Q Chan Standard Thai Mangosteen" another important mechanism to generate income for Thai farmers.
On 22 April 2026, Mr. Weerasak Boonchern, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Agricultural Extension, opened the "Kick Off Q Chan 2026: Q Chan Standard Thai Mangosteen" event. Attending were Mrs. Kanita Ratnuay, Deputy Governor of Chanthaburi Province; Ms. Jaruwan Thongbai, Chanthaburi Provincial Agricultural Officer; Mr. Phiphat Tengsethsak, Chairman of the Q Chan Community Enterprise Network; along with government agencies, private sector representatives, entrepreneurs, and farmers. The event was held at the Chanthaburi Provincial Administrative Organization.
Mangosteen, a signature fruit of Chanthaburi Province, is recognized both domestically and internationally. In 2026, Chanthaburi has 108,612 rai of established mangosteen orchards, with an expected yield of around 122,327 tons. However, managing the seasonal production remains challenging, especially for black-skinned and off-size mangosteen. Though these have good consumption quality and delicious taste, they differ from export-grade mangosteen, which has shiny skin and weighs 75 grams or more.
In Thailand, these mangosteens have yet to reach their full value potential. The Provincial Agricultural Office, together with the Q Chan Community Enterprise Network—which includes four community enterprises and one operator—has integrated efforts with all sectors to elevate black-skinned and off-size mangosteen to "Q Chan Standard Thai Mangosteen." This initiative follows a market-driven production approach, linking provincial networks and managing production comprehensively to help distribute products, add value, and expand domestic market channels.
On this occasion, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) and product purchase agreements were signed between the Q Chan Community Enterprise Network, the Modern Fruit Trade Association (MAFTA), and Thai Best Products Holding Company. This partnership aims to connect farmers and entrepreneurs, focusing on expanding sales channels and adding value to black-skinned and off-size mangosteen. The collaboration seeks to build a strong network, push products into modern retail markets nationwide, and establish a unified image and standards to build consumer confidence.
Mr. Phiphat Tengsethsak, Chairman of the Q Chan Community Enterprise Network, explained that the Q Chan standard elevates lower-grade products to increase their value. Off-size mangosteen, which is smaller than export standards but popular among local farmers and residents in Chanthaburi due to its ideal size, quality, and full flavor comparable to export grades, is considered a local specialty. However, the name "off-size mangosteen" carries negative connotations among consumers domestically, limiting its popularity.
When supply exceeds demand at the source, market oversaturation occurs, necessitating more domestic distribution channels and public awareness campaigns for off-size mangosteen. Alongside this, good logistics management and fresh quality preservation, such as cold storage, are essential. Comprehensive management from production to end-market can prevent oversupply and price drops, ultimately improving farmers' livelihoods.
Meanwhile, Mr. Weerasak Boonchern, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Agricultural Extension, stated that the department prioritizes advancing agriculture under the "market-driven production" concept. It promotes grouping large farms and community enterprises to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen market bargaining power. This event is not only a product launch but also an opening of markets for Thai mangosteen. He is confident that "Q Chan Mangosteen" will be a key mechanism to generate income and sustainably improve the quality of life for Thai farmers.