Thailand’s National

Biotechnology
Policy Framework(2012-2021)

Thailand’s National
Biotechnology
Policy Framework(2012-2021)

Food and Agriculture l Medicine and Health l Bioenergy l Bio-based Industry

National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office (STI)
National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC)
National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA)

Ministry of Science and Technology, ThailandPreface

Biotechnology plays a vital role in Thailand’s
development, driven by ongoing investments inresearch, development and manufacturing acrossmultiple sectors. National biotechnology policies
stimulate innovations, boost competitiveness andincrease productivity, while working to improve thequality of life for Thai citizens and the conservation andrehabilitation of the country’s natural resources.
As biotechnology advanced into the genomic
and post-genomic eras, it created no less benefit
to the world than the previous three technologicalrevolutions. In addition to well-publicized advances inmedicine, biotechnology has stimulated major shifts in
the industrial sector. Where chemical-based industries
once dominated, bio-based alternatives have evolved,
including many environmentally friendly and energy

efficient products gaining increased traction in themarketplace. Production processes have been greatly
simplified and streamlined as a result of biotechnology.
So it is no surprise that many countries invest in
biotechnology research and development to raisecompetitiveness and minimize the risks of being left
behind as the industry matures.
In Thailand, the implementation of the previous
National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2004-2009)
helped establish the country’s capacity to pursue
biotechnology, resulting in a significant leap forwardin the sector’s evolution. This is evidenced by rapid
growth in: biotechnology businesses; investment
targeting biotechnology research by existing andnew enterprises and the development of many new
products and services. At the community level,increased biotechnology capacity enhanced people’s
livelihoods by improving food fermentation, facilitatingorganic fertilizer production and use, and stimulating
demand for the preservation of rare, indigenous plant
species now recognized as valuable economic assets.
Combined, the Framework’s results have helped
increase competitiveness within the economy andbrought greater efficiencies to society.
Despite Thai society’s increased biotechnology
capacity and knowledge, the public and private
support system the industry requires is not keeping
pace. Insufficient capital and financing mechanisms,
along with limited IP management, standards system
and regulations are all working to impede Thailand’s
biotechnology development. Moreover, increasing
challenges facing society such as climate change, global
economic integration, lost livelihoods and emerging
infectious diseases further reinforce the need to ramp
up biotechnology’s support infrastructure.

National Science Technology and Innovation
Policy Office (STI), National Center for Genetic
Engineering and Biotechnology Office (BIOTEC) andNational Science and Technology Development Agency(NSTDA) collectively undertook the preparation of
the current National Biotechnology Policy Framework(2012-2021). This was undertaken in accordance withthe 1st National Science, Technology and Innovation
Policy and Plan (2012-2021). The principle objective
was to initiate programs that solidify biotechnology’s role
as a leading force for sustainable social and economic
development by bolstering Thailand’s energy, food andhealth security.
The completion of the National Biotechnology
Policy Framework (2012-2021) was possible thanks
to the kind support of many committed people,
especially Dr. Yongyuth Yuthavong who chairs the
Policy Framework Steering Committee and Dr. Amaret
Bhumiratana who chairs the Framework’s Working
Committee. We take this opportunity to express our
sincere gratitude to them and all those who contributed.
Dr. Pichet Durongkaveroj

Secretary General
National Science Technology and Innovation Policy OfficeContents

			
			
		

Conceptual Approach
Targets
Science and Technology Critical to Success
Supporting Infrastructure Requirements
Implementation Strategies
Four Strategic Sectors

9
10
11
12
14
16

Key Actors​	
Financial and Human Resources

54
66

			
			
		

1st Strategic Sector:

Food andAgriculture

19-27

2nd Strategic Sector:

Medicine and
Health29-37

3rd Strategic Sector:

Bioenergy

39-47

4th Strategic Sector:

Bio-based Industry
49-53

Thailand’s Biotechnology Development Strategy• Rationale• Targets• Strategies• Implementation Measures• Expected Results

Conceptual Approach
1 Work in parallel with global, regional and national development priorities
In formulating the Policy Framework, strong consideration was given to how the Policy
Framework’s objectives and targets could reinforce those of related plans and initiatives underway
globally, regionally and nationally. Among those considered were: the Millennium Development
Goals (MDGs), ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), Thailand’s National Economic and Social
Development Plan (2012-2016), the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy andPlan (2012-2021), the 8th National Research Policy and Strategy (2012-2016) and the National
Guideline for Capacity Building in Science, Technology and Innovation Competitiveness.

2 Strengthen Thailand’s competitiveness and self-sufficiency throughbiotechnology
Building competiveness and self-sufficiency in the areas where Thailand either has strong
potential and/or pressing needs.

3 Promote private sector investment in biotechnology R&D and thebiotech industry development, and deeper community engagement inbiotechnology
Increasing private sector investment in R&D as well as biotech industry development and work
to mainstream biotechnology into community development plans.
9

Targets
1 Increase competitiveness by advancing science and technology in areas

where Thailand has a comparative advantage and/or strong capacity.

2 Increase wealth and reduce inequality by creating jobs.
3 Increase quality of life by strengthening economic, social, health andenvironmental security and promote lifelong learning.

4 Foster sustainable development by helping to realize economic

development objectives that safeguard environmental quality and conserve
natural resources.

5 Strengthen national security by increasing self-reliance in strategic sectors
such as energy and healthcare.

10

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

‘Science and Technology
Critical to Success’
Success in biotechnology development for the Policy Framework’s
Strategic Sectors rests with a deeper application of:• Platform technologies including: systems biology, genomics, proteomics,
DNA technology, synthetic biology, cell factory and DNA chips.
• Basic sciences such as biology, zoology, microbiology, physics,
chemistry and mathematics.
• Multidisciplinary technologies such as nano-biotechnology, bioinformatics
and biophysics.

11

‘Supporting Infrastructure
Requirements’
1 Physical infrastructure such as biology research institutes, centers forexcellence, pilot plants and regional bioparks.

2 Personnel development and capacity building for biotechnology

and related fields including professional researchers, biotechnology business
managers, IP managers and local researchers generated from the Royal Golden
Jubilee Ph.D. Program and multidisciplinary study programs.

3 Critical investment and biotechnology development fundestablished through a public-private partnership to provide capital forbiotechnology entrepreneurs.

4 Streamlined regulation and investment policies advance more

efficient policies, regulations and standards to eliminate bottlenecks impeding
progress in key areas such as GMOs, biosafety, bioethics and IP management.
Seek tax deductions for R&D expenses related to the Framework’s strategic
sectors. Structure government procurement processes to support markets forbio-based products.

12

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Strategic
Sectors

Targets

Science &Technology• Improve quality of life
• Increase incomes and local employment• Increase competivenessFood and Agriculture

Advance market competivenessand strengthen agricultural
sustainability by increasing
quality, productivity andinnovation while reducing costs• Strengthen national security• Further sustainable development

Supporting
Infrastructure

Medicine and Health

Advance wellness,
improve self-reliance andincrease competiveness inmedical and healthcareﬁelds where Thailand has
a comparative advantage
Bioenergy

Increase energy security by
developing alternative energy
sources withoutcompromising foodproduction or environmental
sustainability
Bio-based Industry

VIS ION

Green Innovations
for Economic Security,
Competitivenessand a Healthy
Society

Increase industry commitment toenvironmental protection through moreresource eﬃcient production and stimulating
innovation in ﬁelds where Thailand holds acomparative advantage

Physical• Regional bioparks• Bioscience research institutes• Pilot plants
Human Resources

Multidisciplinary technologies• Nanobiotechnology• Bioinformatics• Biophysics
Platform technologies• Post-genomics and Omics• Cell factory• Lab-on-a-chip
Basic sciences• Biology• Zoology• Microbiology• Physics• Chemistry• Mathematics

Strengthen biotechnology curricula at
the undergraduate and graduate levels,
especially programs emphasizing multidisciplinary ﬁelds• Increase biotechnology manpower• Recruit and develop research and technology professionals at local levels• Increase the capacity of technology and IP management and grow their workforce• Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Program• Thailand Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (THAIST)• The Royal Golden Jubilee (RGJ) PhD Program
Management• Intellectual Property Management• Access and utilize biological diversity and related technologies

with a good system of Access and Beneﬁt Sharing: ABS• Biotech Fund for small and medium enterprises (SMEs)• Research and production standards• Bioethics• Biosafety• Targeted and full circle research management systems• Science awareness and science communications

13‘Implementation Strategies’
The Policy Framework is designed to mobilize resourcesfrom multiple sources to achieve maximum impact within a shortperiod of time. Innovative programs to promote development inresearch, human resources and capital availability for the Policy
Framework’s Strategic Sectors will stem from the following criteria:

1 High social and economic importance
2 Biotechnology’s comparative advantage to attain productivity

and quality improvements relative to other methods

3 High tendency for private sector R&D investment to pursue

products that have strong market potential, and/or enhance
livelihood at the community level

14

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Social and economic
importance

Success is best
achieved withbiotechnology
Benefits to community
economic development,
including private sector
R&D investment interest

Food and Agriculture• crop and livestock improvement• agricultural inputs(eg. fertilizer, herbicide,pesticide and feed)• value-added products

Medicine and Health• herbal products andfood supplements• diagnostic kits
• vaccines• drugs development

Bioenergy• biogas• cellulosic ethanol• biodiesel from algae

Selection Criteria for Strategic Sectors

Bio-based Industry• bio-catalyst(cell, enzyme)

15Strategic
Sectors
The Policy Framework prioritizes
four strategic sectors

16

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Food andAgriculture

Medicineand Health

Bioenergy

Bio-based
Industry17

18

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

1st Strategic Sector

Food andAgriculture
19

Thailand is among the world’s
leading agriculture and food exporters.
It is therefore critical for the country toadapt to global trends so as to maintainits position, especially to meet growing
global food demands and the need torespond to climate change mitigation
by transitioning toward more bio-basedenergy sources.
World agricultural demand forecasts
show a strong need for increased
production of crops to supply the rapidly
evolving bioenergy and biotech industry:
cassava, sugarcane and palm oil inparticular. Thailand must increase its
output of these crops two-fold over the
next decade, to more than 200 million
tons, in order to maintain its global market
position.

20

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Increased crop productivity can be achieved throughmanagement technology gains and the application of
biotechnology to improve yields up to a crop’s maximum
genetic potential.

Maximum genetic potential
Genetic potential for recommended
varieties in Thailand
Current productivity (national average)
Genetic improvement
Management / Technology

Genetic potential for cassava, sugarcane and palm oil1
1 Morakot Tanticharoen, M. et al 2552 (2009) Potential Yield Increase for Sugarcane, Cassava and Palm Oil for

Bioenergy by Technology and Plantation Land Expansion. The study was undertaken as a part of policy research tosupport the development and use of renewable energy to increase energy efficiency in Thailand (Phase 2), submitted
to the Department of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency

21

‘Rationale: Food and Agriculture’• Advance market competiveness andstrengthen agricultural sustainability
by increasing quality, productivity andinnovation while reducing costs. Increase
biotechnology’s role in crops and livestock
cultivation, especially through their inputs(eg. fertilizer, herbicide, pesticide andfeed) to raise food production efficiency
and to contribute to environmentally
responsible and sustainable agricultural
production.

• Increase agricultural quality andproductivity to yield a 50 percent increasein the sector’s value chain throughgenetic improvements, quality and safetycontrols, nutrient labeling and productdiversification and innovation.

22

Prices for rice seeds
Products
Common rice
Jasmine rice
Black jasmine rice
Hybrid rice

Prices(Baht/Kg)

23-25
29
35
120

Complied by BIOTEC’s Policy Research and
Bio Safety Division, with data from Departmentof Rice, Center for Community Rice andProduct Support in Ubon Rachathani and
Bangkok Seeds Industry Co.,Ltd.

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

rice

15

Milled rice

20

Unmilled

Rice flour

45

Noodles50

ts

Excipien

120

owder

Talcum p

450

uff
Powder p

47,000Prices of products produced from 1 kg of rice (Baht)
va

2.00

ip

2.82

Ethanol

3.07

arch

3.50

Butanol

4.31

a
Raw cassch
Cassava

Tapioca stdProcesse

starchdLactic aci
Polylactic)

acid (PLA

7.00
15.00
35.00

Price of products produced from 1 kg of cassava (Baht)
Complied by Policy Study and Biosafety Division, BIOTEC

23

Targets andStrategy

24

Target: Advance market competiveness andstrengthen agricultural sustainability and farmer
livelihoods by increasing quality, productivity andinnovation while reducing costs and responding toclimate change.

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Strategy: Apply genomic technology, genetic engineeringand cell factory systems in combination with othertechnologies along with conventional plant breeding toenable the following:

1 Crops and livestock
cultivation improvement

Increase productivity, pests
and disease resistance, and meet
emerging industrial demands such as
high-starch and fine pellet cassava or
high-protein and antioxidant-rich rice.
Adapt to changing climaticconditions, such as developing
drought-resistant rubber. In the caseof livestock, genetic development
can generate more productive andfaster-growing farm animals such as
high-meat content pigs, higher yieldsof healthy piglets per mother anddairy cows that remain productive inwarmer climates.

2 Agricultural inputs’
improvement

Diversify and increase
productivity of microorganism
for soil nourishment by modifying
organic fertilizers, pesticides andlivestock food supplements
to reduce antibiotics , and by
developing easy-to-use vaccines
and test kits for accurate diseasediagnosis.

3 Products value-added

Increase agriculturaland food production value
by utilizing farm wastes as
inputs for other industries.
Such waste could aid in the
production of sweeteners,
bioenergy, biopolymers andother biochemical products
as well as food supplements
such as dissolvable fibers,
low-calorie food, fat
substitutes and biochemical
substances.

25

Implementation Measures• Increase community access tobiotechnology by simplifying research
products and developing technologies
appropriate to their localities. Establish pilot
farms with community participation andlocal administration leadership. Support
these farms through existing mechanisms
such as technology assistants, local/village
agricultural technology transfer centers andlocal universities.

• Accelerate R&D for crop/livestock strainsof desired qualities. Improve inputs suchas high-performance microorganism strains
for organic fertilizer and livestock feed
supplements. Initiatives to stimulate funding
for R&D within the food sector, both tostimulate innovation and to enhance basic
science research, could be derived in partfrom agricultural and food export taxes.

• Increase government support for GMO
research and commercial production
together with strengthening biosafety policy
and procedures.

26

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Expected Outputs
The implementation of suchmeasures will result in improved
farmers’ quality of life and job security,
increased food productivity, and better
food quality and safety that together
will yield added revenue for farmers.
They will also realize reduced costs
through less agricultural chemicaluse, recycled resources and reduced
losses from pest, disease and climatic
variability.

27

28

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

2nd Strategic Sector

Medicineand Health29

Thailand’s public healthcare system has faced increasing challenges over the past few decades.
Rapid lifestyle changes accompanying globalization and growth in the market economy has brought
greater public health risks associated with unhealthy diets, accumulated stress and lack of regularexercise or physical activity. Between 2007 and 2011 cancer, diabetes, heart and vascular diseases
were among the leading causes of death within the Thai population. Increasing frequencies of
emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases have also added social and economic costs to thecountry’s healthcare system. Like many nations, Thailand’s population is aging. The senior sector
is expected to reach 15.3 percent in 2020, more than double its 7.2 percent share in 1990.
Moreover, increased longevity has brought with it a steady rise in the prevalence of diabetes, heartdisease, kidney failure and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Growth inhealthcare costs is destined to command a significant portion of the government budget.
Medical technologies will continue to compliment preventive medicine and other public healthmanagement measures in helping Thailand cope with these challenges. Biotechnology in particular
is increasingly being relied upon: from prevention and early diagnosis, to treatment and rehabilitation.
Thailand’s biotechnology development in medicine and healthcare is at a relatively advanced
level, especially in tropical diseases. Thailand has received international recognition thanks to its
longstanding investments in basic sciences and clinical research. This capacity, when combined withthe country’s inherently rich biodiversity, provides a solid foundation for ongoing, commercially viable
product development, particularly for biopharmaceuticals, herbal products, active pharmaceuticalingredients (API) and functional foods. Continuing along this trajectory will help to reduce medical
products’ import stresses on national public health budgets, while generating export revenues bymarketing these products overseas.

30

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Cause of Death

2007

2008

NumberRate

NumberMalignant neoplasm,
all forms

54,34384.9

55,403

87.6

56,058

Vascular diseases

34,74255.2

35,391

56.0

Infectious diseases
and parasites

38,12360.6

38,672

Accidents and suicide

42,884

68.1

Respiratory diseases

25,414

Reproductive system
and urinary tract
diseases

NumberRate

88.3

58,076

91.2

61,08295.2

35,05055.2

39,45961.944,13368.8

61.2

38,511

60.7

41,36964.941,46664.6

41,786

66.1

41,946

66.1

39,926

62.7

40,682

63.4

40.4

26,35841.7

26,16641.2

29,65446.6

32,05749.9

14,09522.4

14,89623.6

13,90721.9

14,70523.1

15,811

24.6

Gastronomic diseases

13,072

20.8

13,053

206.0

13,03820.5

13,48421.2

14,27822.2

Endocrine, nutritious
and metabolism
diseases

8,505

13.5

8,601

13.6

7,901

12.5

7,829

12.3

8,854

13.8

Neurological diseases

5,259

8.4

5,093

8.1

4,590

7.2

4,633

7.3

5,137

8.0

594

0.9

563

0.9

538

0.8

596

0.9

618

1.0

237,031375

239,816392 264,118

412

565 237,705

Rate

2011

Rate

TOTAL

Number

2010
NumberBlood, blood forming
organs and immune
systemRate

2009

374 249,731

Thai mortality per 100,000 people by leading causes (2007 – 2011)3
3 Health Information Unit, Bureau of Health Policy and Strategy, Ministry of Public Health (http://bps.ops.moph.go.th/2.3.4-50.pdf)
31

Globalization facilitates theproliferation of infectious diseases,
both in numbers of those infected andthe speed by which diseases spread.
Thailand’s ability to produce vaccines is
crucial for national security, as they will
help to prevent infectious diseases fromspreading and causing far-reachingsocial and economic problems.

32

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

‘Rationale for Biotechnology
Development in Medicine and
Health’• Biotechnology can play a key role in the overall wellness of Thai people bycreating pharmaceutical and healthcare products that bring about inexpensive
and rapid diagnosis, effective treatments and preventive care.

• The private sector is poised to invest in promising research and development
in biotechnology related medicine and healthcare products.

33

‘Targets and
Implementation Strategy’
Targets: Promote public wellness, increase national self-reliance inhealthcare and build competitiveness in markets where Thailand’s
biotechnology sector is poised to contribute.
Strategy: Expand the use of key technologies including: genomics,
genetic modification and molecular biotechnology, production of
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) and new industrial production
techniques, all with an aim to grow the following product sectors.

34

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

1 Medical
diagnostic kits

accelerate developmentof products thatsimultaneously diagnose
multiple diseases, areeasy to use and areaffordable. Emphasize
diagnostics’ development
of diseases of national
concern including cancer,
genetic diseases andtropical diseases.

3 Vaccinesprioritize thedevelopment of
2 Drug development vaccines critical forcommon diseases
strengthen baselinein Thailand, andtechnology for active
construct pilot plants
pharmaceuticalthat pave the way
ingredients (API) andfor industrial-levelbiopharmaceutical
vaccine production.
products such as
therapeutic proteinsfor which Thailand has
demonstrated capacity
to pursue. Partnerwith international drug
companies to mobilize
investment resources andto enable local interests
to rapidly expand theircapacities to build andoperate a complete drug
production chain.

4 Foodsupplements

promote research
to provide scientificevidence of the benefitsof natural products andcompounds available
domestically. Establish
quality control measures
for the cultivation andextraction of compounds
from herbal plants acrossdifferent localities thatrealize high yields andprovide a consistent
supply chain throughout
the year.

35

36

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Implementation Measures:• Facilitate the development of support

infrastructure for the upgrade of animal testinglabs to GLP standards, and establish pilot
plants for the production of drugs, vaccines,
food supplements and biological substances.
• Advance critical platform technologies such as
genome, nutrigenomics, pharmacogenomics,
proteomics and drug discovery.
• Promote research to attain scientific justification
to certify natural ingredients for food supplement
products, strengthen consumer confidence
in these products, and support productregistration.
• Develop production processes for active
ingredients that ensure consistency in highquality and yields.
• Create mechanisms and incentives for foreign
investment and technology transfers that enablelocal entrepreneurs to accelerate productresearch, development and production.

Expected Outcome:
Implementation of these measures will
significantly strengthen all aspects of Thailand’s
medicine and healthcare sector. By supporting
advances in innovation and by cultivating astronger biotechnology support infrastructure,
the industry will be able to generate highvalue healthcare products. Furthermore, thesector’s increased capacity will reduce importsof medicine, healthcare products and foodsupplements by 20-30 percent over the next
decade. Conversely, these measures will help
reduce by 10 percent raw material imports fortherapeutic proteins and food supplements.
Combined, these initiatives will set the stage
for Thailand to become a healthcare production
hub within ASEAN.
37

38

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

3rd Strategic Sector

Bioenergy39

In 2021 Thailand intends to meet 25 percent of its energy needs
through renewable sources. To achieve this, it is estimated that biodiesel
production will need to increase to 6 million liters per day and ethanol to
9 million liters per day. This calls for securing additional and alternative raw
materials. In so doing, particular attention must be paid to avoiding conflicts
with food production as most bioenergy is presently generated from foodcrops such as sugarcane, cassava and palm oil.
Palm oil, for example, is currently used to generate 2.8 million litersof biodiesel per day. It’s unlikely, however, that much more palm oil canbe directed to meet the additional 3.2 million liters of biodiesel per day
forecasted. Food industry demand and limited cultivatable lands virtually assurethat palm oil biodiesel production has reached its ceiling. Recognizing such
constraints, the government has emphasized research and development for
future biodiesel beyond third generation bioenergy.

40

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Productivity(million liters/day)

19.0

13.0

9.0

9.0

4.5

4.5

Surplus above
10 million liters/day

6.0
3.6

3.0
1.6
1.2

2.8

Deﬁcit below
1.7 million liters/day

2021

2019

2017

2015

2013

2011

2009

Ethanol target
Estimated ethanol production volume
Biodiesel target
Estimated biodiesel production volume

Capacity and Targets for Bioenergy in Thailand44 Ministry of Energy targets with reference to the study on Potential Yield Increases for Sugarcane, Cassava andPalm Oil for Bioenergy through Technology and Plantation Expansion: policy research to support the development
and use of renewable energy to increase energy efficiency in Thailand (Phase 2)
41

Biogas will play a much greater role inmeeting the country’s future energy needs. By
2021, the government aims to realize a threefold increase in biogas supply above current
production. Such growth is possible due toreadily available raw materials such as waste
generated by livestock farming, agriculture andfood processing and households, combined withhigh-level technological R&D that stands readyto be applied to commercial biogas production.

42

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

‘Rationale: Bioenergy’• Clean, low-carbon bioenergy must be generated from inputs

not in conflict with the food production sector.
• Biotechnology offers the best path to identifying andmaximizing feedstock potential.
• The private sector is highly motivated to advance R&D inbioenergy.

43‘Targets and Strategy’

Targets: Increase energy security by using biotechnology
to develop alternative energy sources which are not in
conflict with food production. Thailand needs to invest in
research and development to fuel its second generation
bioenergy, namely establishing a strong base for ethanol
production from agricultural waste cellulose. This will thenallow advancement to the third generation of bioenergy
from algae feedstock along with more widespread useof biogas from organic waste generally.

44

Strategy: Apply several technologies
including genomics, microorganism
physiology, genetic modification, highthroughput screening, fermentation andindustrial manufacturing technologies toincrease bioenergy production efficiency inThailand. Three specific energy sources will
be targeted:• Biogas from wastewater and solid wastes• Cellulosic ethanol• Biodiesel from algae

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

1 Biogas from waste products

Expand biogas production and usage to help transition the
country away from fossil fuel energy sources within the industrial,
transport and residential sectors. Emphasize community levelfeedstock inputs, be they from farms, livestock production orother organic waste streams.
It is necessary to develop a deeper and more multidisciplinary
base in technology use at the domestic level. This is critical tothe advancement of such disciplines as bioengineering, which
can help propel the country’s biogas technology to a muchhigher level. Different biogas uses require different technologies.
For example, biogas production technology to service industry
must assure efficiency and reliability. Community producers
will focus more on locally suitable decomposition technology
along with smaller-scale and lower-cost production processes.
The government has established mechanisms to provide
financial support and tax benefits as incentives for the private
sector to invest in biogas production system. But to more quickly
deploy biogas technology at the community level, supportive
mechanisms must be designed that cater to specific community
needs and should include:• Interest-free loans

financed by the National
Environment Fund

• Accelerate thedevelopment ofappropriate technologies
such as high-performancemicroorganisms suitable
for raw materials use,and efficient, small-scalebiogas production systems

Implementation of the above
mechanisms will lead to expansion of
biogas use by industry and local consumers.
This will improve domestic energy security
through energy import reductions. They will
also create a more healthy society throughenvironmentally friendly, low carbon energy
supplies.
45

2 Ethanol from cellulosic
materials

Advance developmentof enzymes appropriate fordifferent raw materials, andupscale enzymes’ production
for effective fermentation at theindustrial level. Success requires
platform technology support
such as fermentation technology,
genomic technology and genetic
modification technology. Also
needed is increased manpowerin bioengineering and related
fields to staff demonstration plants
and commercial manufacturing
facilities.
Additionally, the following
measures to attract private
sector investment in researchand development should beconsidered:46• Seek overseas partnerships and investment tofacilitate technology acquisition at local levels,
especially industrial fermentation technology anddownstream processing• Establish matching funds and/or public-private
partnerships to support demonstration plants• Secure tax incentives such as a carbon tax tostimulate the biogas market and to generate
revenue for ongoing research and development
within the sector• Develop policies that promote research,development and production of commercially
viable GMOs and that strengthen GMO biosafetymeasuresBy 2021, it is anticipated that the production costs of ethanol from
cellulosic materials for commercial application will be 10 Baht per liter,
and that cellulosic ethanol will meet 10 percent of the country’s biofuel
demand.

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

3 Biodiesel from algae

The initial step in harnessing biodiesel from algae is to accelerate biotechnology use
throughout the algae-biodiesel production chain: from algae species selection, culture management
systems, oil extraction to quality and qualification control. During the first five years (2012 –2016) emphasis will be placed on technology applications from genomics, physiology andgenetic modification. Additionally, a five-fold increase in manpower will be required, along withsupport infrastructure in the form of laboratories a demonstration plant that can be scaled-up to
100,000 liters per day. The second five-year period (2017 – 2021) will focus on the applicationof generated knowledge to screen and develop algae species offering high productivity, improving
and expanding culture management systems toward demonstrated production viability, andassuring sufficient human resources.
Here too it is critical to promote measures that cultivate private sector investment in researchand development:• Secure tax incentives such as carbon
taxes to stimulate the biogas market
and generate revenue for relevant
research and development• Promote policies for research,development and production of
GMOs and strengthen biosafetyassessment system to assure publicconfidence in GMO products

By 2021, it is anticipated thatbiodiesel from algae will meet 10 percentof the country’s biofuel consumption
target. However, at present the generationof biodiesel from algae costs $US 150 per
barrel, well above the price of petroleumbased and other fuel substitutes. Efforts
therefore must be made to identify anddevelop high-value, co-products fromalgae production, such as pigment,
vitamins and food supplements.
47

48

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

4th Strategic Sector

Bio- based
Industry49

Thailand imports an estimated 350 billion Baht
worth of industrial chemicals annually, of which 14 billion
Baht is for biochemical products such as organic acids,
antibiotics, alcohol, vitamins, amino acids, enzymes andyeast. Multiple forces are now shifting industrial demand
toward bio-based inputs. Environmental protection,
calls for reduced natural resource exploitation, water
conservation and manufacturing of multiple products
from a single process are among the contributing factors
driving the push for more bio-based industrial inputs.
Thailand is positioned to remain at the leading edge ofthis transition thanks to the country’s rich endowment of
biodiversity, its large agricultural sector and the strengthof its evolving biotechnology sector. The country is readyto creatively cultivate these assets to meet demand for
new industrial inputs, increase production efficiency andimprove environmental stewardship through reduced
greenhouse gas emissions.

50

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

‘Rationale:
Bio-based Industry’• The future calls for an increasingly robust bio-basedindustrial sector.
• Biotechnology will play a major role in optimizing
production processes by reducing costs, waste,effluent and greenhouse gas emissions.
• The private sector is motivated to invest in promisingresearch and development within the sector.

51

‘Targets and Strategy’

Targets: Strengthen industry’s
commitment to prioritize environmental
protection by taking advantage of
biotechnology’s offerings that allow forcleaner, more efficient manufacturing
processes. Promote innovation whereThailand has comparative advantages
such as in bioplastics, bioenergy andlivestock feed.
52

Strategy: Apply multiple technologies including
genomics, genetic engineering, fermentation
technology and manufacturing technologies togenerate biological catalyst with an emphasison discovery and genetic improvement of
microorganism strains. To upscale domestic
fermentation technology, it is viable to importtechnology from overseas for a rapid maturity of
the industry at home.

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Implementation Measures:• Accelerate establishment of biosafety safeguards forthe use of GM organisms in controlled conditions.
• Attract foreign investment and/or import fermentationand downstream process technologies so that local
manufacturing gains a comparative advantage
to cultivate bio-based industry development
opportunities.
• Structure government procurement processes tosupport markets for bio-based products.
Additional public sector leadership in areas such
as GMO policy refinements, mechanism to stimulate
foreign investment and more aggressive application of
the Polluter-Pays Principle (PPP) will help encourage theuse of microbial leavening agents or enzyme for chemical
replacement. Bio-based manufacturing will thus expand,reducing energy and water consumption and cutting
greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the country’s
vision for clean and green economy.

53‘Key Actors in Thailand’s
Biotechnology Development’
Four groups of main actors• Community• Small and medium enterprises (SMEs)• Large enterprises• Research and innovation community

Research &innovation
community

Large
Enterprises
(LEs)

SMEs

Community

Key Actors in Thailand’s Biotechnology Development

54

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

1 Community
Biotechnology is not novel to an agricultural society such as Thailand’s.
Preservation and fermentation of food and beverages have longtime been a partof local livelihoods. This technology has evolved over time along with increasing
scientific knowledge introduced by government agencies and the businesssector. Common biotechnology usage at the community level includes planttissue cultures, inoculum for mushroom cultivation, organic fertilizers, natural
pesticides, and biogas from agricultural and community organic waste.
As biotechnology advances, it is critical to ensure communities at the local
level are not left behind. Increasingly, they need to become better equippedwith technology to cope with changing socio-economic conditions. For example,
competition in agricultural markets is becoming more intense. Emerging regional
trade agreements are lowering cross-border trade barriers. Natural resources
are disappearing and environmental degradation is accelerating. The laborpool is shrinking as the population ages. In recognition of these challenges,
the government has designed an appropriate technology outreach strategy
specifically for communities known as 4P: Public, Private, People and Partnership.
Among its priorities are mainstreaming technology transfer and usage into relevant
local development plans, increasing the number and skill sets of researchers,
and stimulating an atmosphere for technology advocacy and communication.
55

2 Business Sector
To better target commercial development
mechanisms for biotechnology the Framework
divides the business sector into two groups –small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and large
enterprises.

2.1. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

SMEs, particularly small enterprises, comprise
more than 70 percent of all biotechnology business inThailand. However, these small enterprises have limitedroles in research and development as a result of poor
access to: financial capital, high-level biotechnology andother supporting biotechnology infrastructure.
Support Measures:
1. Establish a private sector-led biotechnology
development fund to: enhance SMEs’ researchand development capacity; improve their accessto advanced technology domestically and abroad
through patent and other IP acquisitions; and provide
for low-interest bank loans for investment in industrial
infrastructure and commercializational activities.
56

2. Provide an environment conducive tobiotechnology research and development by creatinga mechanism to increase SMEs’ access to government
services and facilities such as research databases,
personnel, equipment, one-stop research anddevelopment service centers and more favorable
regulations. Establish and/or further advance necessary
infrastructure including animal testing labs with
GLP standards, quality control monitoring facilities,
standardized laboratories and regional science parks.
3. Improve investment incentives for researchand development by creating tax deductions for R&D
expenses related to the Policy Framework’s strategic
sectors. Extend the period during which such R&D
deductions can be claimed from 8 to 15 years. This
longer deduction period would be complimentary to
R&D-related tax incentives provided by Thailand’s Boardof Investment (BOI) to SMEs generally.

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

2.2 Large Enterprises

Investment in technology research anddevelopment by large companies in Thailand remains
relatively low as compared to other countries. This
stems from: the lack of a clear vision or policy direction
for biotechnology at the national level, lack of a sizable
domestic market for biotechnology products and ashortage of research personnel with advanced expertise.

3. Enact policies that promote knowledge-sharing
and training opportunities for public sector researchpersonnel through six-month to two-year secondments
to the private sector.
4. Encourage private sector leadership to establish
laboratories, research centers and research service
facilities through the use of government incentives
such as tax benefits and public-private partnerships infinance, research and research advisory.

Support Measures:
1. Clearly articulate key national objectives suchas Thailand becoming a clean and green nation, and aleader in research and utilization of genetically modified
technologies backed by strong biosafety standards.
2. Establish marketing programs that promote theuse of biotechnology products through: government
procurement, market expansion to neighboring
countries and opportunities within the ASEAN Economic
Community.

57

3 Research and Innovation Community
Thailand’s biotechnology research and development capacity will benefit from:acquiring in-depth and multidisciplinary research skills; strengthening research
infrastructure such as well-equipped laboratories; growing a larger pool of qualified
research personnel, increasing research funding and creating the research system thatbridge knowledge to commercialization.
Support Measures:
1. Over the next decade, increase biotechnology’s research and development budget fromthe current 0.25 percent to 2 percent of GDP through Thailand Research Organizations
Network (TRON) including: the Health Systems Research Institute(HSRI), the Agricultural
Research Development Agency (Public Organization)(ARDA), the National Science andTechnology Development Agency (NSTDA), the Thailand Research Fund (TRF), theNational Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office (STI), the National ResearchCouncil of Thailand (NRCT) and the Higher Education Commission Office (MUA).
2. Fostering Technology management especially on technology and innovation acquisition.
Identify and promote advantages available through global innovation by developing
alliances with overseas research institutes to fill capacity gaps in critical fields; purchasing
technologies, patents and other IPRs from abroad; acquiring stocks and/or businesses
to rapidly gain access to knowledge and advanced technologies and to create future
market opportunities; and identifying new opportunities evolving from regional andinternational agreements.
58

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

3. Create, accelerate and expand the use of core technologies and cross-cutting
technologies necessary for each strategic sector’s development.
4. Establish management mechanisms that foster multidisciplinary research bystrengthening the links between basic and applied research, connecting knowledge
across interrelated sectors and training professional research managers to shareknowledge from the beginning to the end of a product’s value chain.
5. Establish specialized biology research institutes, advance scientific researchfacilities and centers of excellence to support strategic sectors such as food and foodsupplements, and bioenergy from algae. These institutes will simultaneously createknowledge, train professionals and generate employment opportunities.
6. Support and establish research and development that leads to commercialization
infrastructure such as GMP pilot plants for industrial level fermentation and GLP
animal testing labs.
7. Train and support career path development for research professionals, especially
PhDs in multidisciplinary fields and university-private sector collaboration, throughThailand’s Advanced Institute of Science and Technology and the Royal Golden
Jubilee PhD Program.
8. Expand the public sector biotechnology job market by revising regulations of the
Office of Civil Service Commission. To promote more use of biotechnology in orderto create knowledge and qualified personnel in biotechnology within public sector.
59

Core Technology
Food and Agriculture

Marker Assisted
Breeding● High-throughput
Screening● Genetic Engineering●

Medicine and HealthLab-on-a-Chip● High-throughput
Screening● Chemical Biology●

Bioenergy●

Screening andStrain Improvement

Bio-based Industry●

Biological Catalyst

Common Technologies for 4 Strategic Sectors

Microbial and Single Cell Technology● Enzyme Technology● Synthetic Biology● DNA Recombinant Technology● Fermentation and Downstream Processing (Bioengineering)●

60

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Genomic / Post Genomics● Systems Biology●

Financial
Resources

Mainstream biotechnology
into local development
planning

Establish abiotech fund

Human
Resources

Increase biotechnology
advocates, experts and leaders
to promote locally viable
technology

Link with universities Exchange researchand researchprofessionals between
institutes
public and private
sectors

Management Create mechanism for

Set up regional
community participation
bio-parks inthrough the 4-P
strategic locations
Public-Private-People Partnerships

Target Groups

Community

SMEs

Establish public
and private joint
research fund

Increase national researchbudgets for biotechnology
through Thailand Research
Organizations Network (TRON)
Increase/ further groom researchprofessionals, develop theircareer paths and train
professional research managers

Clarify national
biotechnology-related
policies such as GMO

Establish research institutes
for basic biology and relatedsciences

Large Businesses

R&D Community

Summary of Biotechnology Development Measures by Target Groups

61Key Signposts for the National Biotechnology Development Policy Framework (2012-2021)
Two-fold increase of
biological materials
utilization by farmers

One-stop researchservices

5%30%

of local development
plans focus on
biotechnology

Public- private
matching fundGreen business utilizing
advanced biotechnology

of community waste
is used for biogas
production

Biosafety Act

Multidisciplinary
bio-engineering
curriculum

Internationallyrecognized institutes
for agriculture andfood biotechnology

Scientific documentation
mechanisms establishedfor certification of foodsupplements

Thailand produces basic
vaccine through modern
technology

Bt1 billion Biotech FundGLP animal testinglabs

High yield and highquality crop breeds

Biology research
institutes

2013

2014

2015

2012
- Ministry of Natural Resources
and Environment- Ministry of Agriculture andCooperatives- Ministry of Public Health- Ministry of Science andTechnology- Federation of Thai Industries- Ministry of Finance- Thai Association for Biotech
Industries

Responsible
Agencies- Local science parks- Local universities- Local administration organizations- Local universities- National Research Council ofThailand- Thailand Institution for Scienceand Technology Research- BIOTEC- Universities teachingbiotechnology- Office of the Higher Education
Commission- Association for Biotech
Industries- National Research Council ofThailand- National Laboratory Animal
Center- Thailand Research Organizations
Network (TRON)- Federation of Thai Industries- Association for Biotech Industries- Universities teachingbiotechnology- Office of the Higher Education
Commission- Thai Society for Biotechnology- Ministry of Agriculture andCooperatives- BIOTEC- Agricultural Research andDevelopment Agency- Private sector

70:30
public-private biotechnology
investment partnership2016- Thai Association for Biotech
Industries- BIOTEC- Universities- Private sector- Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives- Agricultural Research and Development
Agency- Local science parks- Universities- Food and Drug Administration- Universities- Health Food and Supplements
Association- Ministry of Energy- Local administration organizations- Thailand Environment Institute- Local science parks- Universities- Local science parks- Science Society of Thailand
under the Patronage of His Majesty
the King- Universities- National Vaccine Institute- National Science and Technology
Development Agency- Food and Drug Administration- Universities- Private sector- Board of Investment- Ministry of Finance- Thai Association for Biotech Industries- Private sector

Community
income increase

20%
50%

10%

Two-fold increase ofcompanies equippedwith biotechnology labsof ethanol is
produced from
cellulosic materials

20%

50%

of food exports are
high-valued products

Food supplement
products fromThailand are wellreceived by global
markets

Prototype factory foralgae-based energy

Thailand is ASEAN’s
hub for bio-plastic

4 biological parks

biodiesel supplies
generated from algae

2017

2018

2019

2020

- Thailand Science Park and local
science parks- Thai Association for Biotech
Industries- Ministry of Public Health- Ministry of Science andTechnology- Universities and research
institutes- Food and Drug Administration- Health Food and Supplements
Association- Ministry of Industry- Ministry of Commerce- Thailand Science Park and local
science parks- Universities- Private sector- Ministry of Energy- National Science and Technology
Development Agency- Public science research funding
agencies- Petroleum Institute of Thailand- National Innovation Agency- Plastic Institute of Thailand- Universities- Private sectorof chemical-based industry
converted to bio-based
production
Thailand is a top ten
food exporter with

International
venture capital (VC)
investment in Thaibio-businessincome increase
from value-added/
cost reduction ofcommunity productsof revenues
from high-valued products

10%

50:50

- Ministry of Energy
National Science andTechnology Research Agency- BIOTEC- Universities- Ministry of Finance- Board of Investment- Private sector- Local science parks- Local universities- Thai Business Incubators andScience Parks Association- Local administration
organizations- Ministry of Commerce- Ministry of Industry- Ministry of Science andTechnology- Ministry of Finance- Ministry of Agriculture andCooperation- Ministry Natural Resources andEnvironment- Ministry of Science andTechnology- Ministry of Public Health- Board of Investment- Federation of Thai Industries- Thailand Collaborative
Research Network on
Microalgae for Energy- PTT Group60%

public-private biotechnology
investment partnership2021- Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperation- Ministry Natural Resources and Environment- Ministry of Science and Technology- Ministry of Public Health- Ministry of Education- Local administration organizations- Thai Social Enterprise Office- Thailand Research Fund
- Ministry of Industry- Board of Investment- Thailand Science Park
- Federation of Thai Industries- Thai Association for Biotech Industries- Ministry of Commerce- Ministry of Industry- Universities and research institutes- Federation of Thai Industries- Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural
Cooperative- Foundations and networks for farmers

64

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

Measures that support the Policy
Framework’s key actors in the developmentof Thailand’s biotechnology include:• Establishment of a public–private research

matching fund for demonstration plants.
• Tax benefits allowing 300 percent annual
deductions for research and technology
development expenses.

65

66

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

‘Financial and Human Resources
for Biotechnology Developmentin Thailand’FinanceThailand must continuously invest in technology research and development. By year five of thisPolicy Framework’s implementation this should reach 26 billion Baht, of which 30 percent should comefrom the private sector. In year ten the total investment should reach 67 billion Baht, 50 percent of whichfrom the private sector.

Human Resources

The National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office estimates that by 2016 Thailand must
groom at least 4,000 new PhDs for science and technology research professions, 800 specializing inbiotechnology’s four strategic sectors: 270 for food and agriculture, 200 for medicine and health, 150
for bioenergy and 180 for bio-based industry.
There is also a need to strengthen biotechnology curricula at the undergraduate and graduatelevels, especially programs emphasizing multidisciplinary fields including bioinformatics, bioengineering,biophysics, biomaterial, systems biology, computational biology and bioelectronics.

67

Anticipated Impacts from Biotechnology Investments
Resulting from the Policy Framework

Impacts
Competitiveness• Economy• Science andTechnology

68

5 Years

10 Years• Thailand achieves higher• Thailand is among the word’scompetitiveness in global food and
top ten exporters as a result
agriculture markets and the productof increases in high-valued
market value increases 30 billion
agriculture and food products
Baht per year due to increases in• A 50:50 private-public
production efficiency and innovation
investment ratio in biotechnology• A 30:70 private-public investment
research and development
ratio in biotechnology research anddevelopment• Thai biotech business expansion
across the AEC

Advance Qualityof Life• 10 percent reduction in healthcare
costs for Thai citizens• All household have access tohealthy and safe foodRaise Income
Level• At least 0.5 million family farms• At least one million family farms
increase production efficiency by 10 increase production efficiency bypercent
20 percent• Access to quality healthcare for
all Thai citizens

Impacts
National Security

Sustainable
Development

5 Years

10 Years• Raw materials for production of• At least 10 percent of bio9 million liters of ethanol and 4.5
energy comes from cellulosic
million liters of biodiesel per day
and algae• Thailand can produce a greater• At least 50 percent ofvariety of basic vaccines such as
biochemical produced locallyone for Encephalitis and Hepatitis
B Virus• Food security at the community level• 10 percent of degraded land
rehabilitated• 30 percent of community waste isrecycled• 30 percent of degraded land
rehabilitated• Demonstrated progress towarda low-carbon society

69‘Mechanisms Powering
the Policy Framework’s
Implementation’
Effective implementation of the Policy Framework requires the National
Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office to collaboratively work with
relevant agencies across many technology fields to create the necessary
multidisciplinary approach biotechnology development requires. This platform
can then generate the required research and development results necessary todeliver tangible socio-economic benefits to the country. A roadmap for this has
been devised with clear objectives, implementation pathways and key actors
identified. It then must be submitted to the National Science Technology andInnovation Policy Committee for endorsement and implementation.

70

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

71

72

Thailand’s National Biotechnology Policy Framework (2012-2021)

73

74

Biotechnology Policy Framework Steering Committee
1. Prof. Dr. Youngyuth Yuthavong
National Science and Technology Development Agency
			(NSTDA) – Chairman
2. Secretary General or representative
National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT)
3. Permanent Secretary or representative Ministry of Public Health
4. Permanent Secretary or representative Ministry of Finance
5. Permanent Secretary or representative Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives
6. Secretary General or representative
Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board			(NESDB)
7. Secretary General or representative
The Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI)
8. Secretary General or representative
Office of Higher Education Commission, Ministry of Education
9. Director or representative
The Thailand Research Fund (TRF)
10. Director or representative
National Science and Technology Development Agency NSTDA)
11. Secretary General
National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office (STI)
12. Kan Trakulhoon
The Siam Cement Public Company Limited (SCG )13. Pornsil Patchrintanakul
Charoen Pokphand Group (CP Group)
14. Dr. Pisuth Lertvilai
Health Food and Supplements Association (HFSA)
15. Prof. Dr. Morakot Tanticharoen
National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA)
16. Mechai Viravaidya
The Population and Community Development Association (PDA)
17. Prof. Dr. Sakarindr Bhumiratana
King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi
18. Dr. Songkiat Tansamrit
PTT Public Company Limited
19. Prof. Dr. Amaret Bhumiratana
The Royal Golden Jubilee Ph.D. Program
			
The Thailand Research Fund (TRF)
20. Dr. Ajva Taulananda
True Corporation Public Company Limited
21. Dr. Kanyawim Kirtikara
National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC)
22. Dr. Nares Damrongchai
National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office (STI)
					
75

Working Committee
1. Prof. Dr. Amaret Bhumiratana			
2. Dr. Pichet Durongkaveroj
3. Dr. Peeradet Tongumpai
4. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sittiwat Lertsiri
5. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suphachai Nuanualsuwan
			
6. Dr. Kanyawim Kirtikara
7. Dr. Lily Eurwilaichitr			
8. Uthaiwan Grudloyma			
9. Dr. Nares Damrongchai

76

The Royal Golden Jubilee Ph.D. Program
The Thailand Research Fund (TRF) – Chairman
National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office (STI)
Agricultural Research Development (Public Organization) (ARDA))
Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University
Department of Veterinary Public Health,
Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Chulalongkorn University
National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC)
Bioresources Technology Research Unit,
National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC)
Policy Study and Biosafety Unit
National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC)
National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office (STI)Expert Panel on Algae Biodiesel
1. Dr. Aparat Mahakhant
2. Dr. Sorawit Powtongsook
			
3. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prasert Pavasant			
4. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prayad Pokethitiyook
5. Dr. Metha Meetam
6. Dr. Kunn Kangvansaichol
7. Dr. Wipawan Siangdung			
8. Assoc. Prof. Boosya Bunnag
			
9. Dr. Rutjawate Taharnklaew
10. Dr. Chaya Chandavasu
11. Dr. Wilaiporn Chetanachan			
12. Dr. Anek Silapapun

Thailand Institute of Science and Technology Research (TISTR)
Center of Excellence for Marine Biotechnology
National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC)
Department of Chemical Engineering
Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University
Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University
Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University
PTT Research and Technology Institute, PTT Public Company Limited
Pilot Plant Development and Training InstituteKing Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi
Pilot Plant Development and Training InstituteKing Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi
Betagro Public Company Limited
PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited
Corporate Technology Office
The Siam Cement Public Company Limited (SCG)
Crop Intregration Business, CP Group77

Expert Panel on Private Sector R&D Investment
1. Komkrit Sajjaanantakul
i+MED Laboratories Company Ltd.
2. Wiwan Tharahirunchote
Kasikorn Research Center Co., Ltd.
3. Vitoon Vonghangool
BioNet-Asia Co. Ltd.
4. Asst. Prof. Dr. Akkharawit Kanjana-Opas Prince of Songkla University Science Park			
Prince of Songkla University
5. Dr. Bhasu Bhanich-Supapol
Fiscal Policy Research Institute Foundation (FPRI)
6. Assist. Prof. Dr. Thanaphol Virasa
College of Management, Mahidol University

Expert Panel on Biotechnology for Community Sustainable Development
1. Sumate Tanchareon			
2. Benjamaporn Limpisathian
3. Somsak Ploypanichcharoen
4. Nun Pakdi
5. Assist. Prof. Chanchai Limpiyakorn
6. Rungsima Tantalakha
			

78

Institute for Scientific and Technological Research and Services (ISTRS),King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT)
Thai Health Promotion Foundation
National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA)
Social entrepreneur
Energy Ashram Appropriate Technology Association (ATA)
Biodiversity Research and Training Program (BRT)
National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA)

Expert Panel on Food Supplement Technology
1. Dr. Paiboon Thammarutwasik			
2. Dr. Pisuth Lertvilai
3. Asst. Prof. Dr. Anadi Nitithamyong
4. Asst. Prof.Dr. Akkharawit Kanjana-Opas			
5. Assoc. Prof. Parichat Hongsprabhas
6. Asst. Prof. Dr. Wantanee Kriengsinyos
7. Prof. Dr. Pavinee Chinachoti
8. Suphakanya Tantrabundit
9. Asst. Prof. Jintanaporn Wattanathorn
10. Assoc. Prof. Promchit Saralamp
11. Somnuek Suchaitanavanit			
12. Dr.Bhasu Bhanich-Supapol
13. Chanwit Rattanarasri

Faculty of Natural Resources
Prince of Songkla University Hat Yai
Health Food and Supplements Association (HFSA)
Institute of Nutrition, Mahidol University.
Prince of Songkla University Science Park
Prince of Songkla University
Faculty of Agro-Industrial, Kasetsart University
Institute of Nutrition, Mahidol University.
Faculty of Agro- Industry, Prince of Songkla University
Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahasarakham University
Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University
Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University
Department for Thai Traditional and Complementary Medicine.
Ministry of Public Health
Fiscal Policy Research Institute Foundation (FPRI)National Innovation Agency (NIA)

79

The secretary of the Working Committee and the Steering Committee of the
Biotechnology Policy Framework
National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC)
National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA)
1. Uthaiwan Grudloyma
2. Dr. Nataporn Chanvarasuth
3. Watcharin Meerod
4. Dr. Yuwanan Santitaweeroek
5. Surisa Tipphong
6. Kulwarang Suwanasri
7. Krisada Bamrungwong
National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office (STI)
1. Dr. Nares Damrongchai
2. Dr. Suchat Udomsopagit
3. Sopida Tongsopit
4. Sirijunya Aokram

80

81

National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Office

319 Chamchuri Square Building, 14th Floor , Phayathai, Bangkok, Thailand 10330
tel 0 2160 5432 | fax 0 2160 5438-9
info@sti.or.th | www.sti.or.thDesigned by

Pen Thai Publishing co.,ltd.
tel 0 2736 9918 | fax 0 2736 8891
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As biotechnology advanced into the genomic and post-genomic eras, it created noless beneﬁt to the world than the previous three technological revolutions. In addition towell-publicized advances in medicine, biotechnology has stimulated major shifts in theindustrial sector. Where chemical-based industries once dominated, bio-based alternatives
have evolved, including many environmentally friendly and energy efﬁcient products gaining
increased traction in the marketplace. Production processes have been greatly simpliﬁed andstreamlined as a result of biotechnology. So it is no surprise that many countries invest in
biotechnology research and development to raise competitiveness and minimize the risks ofbeing left behind as the industry matures.
Dr. Pichet Durongkaveroj
Secretary General
National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Ofﬁce

National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Ofﬁce
319 Chamchuri Square BD., 14, Phayathai Rd., Patumwan, Bangkok, 10330
Telephone: 0 2160 5432 Fax: 0 2160 5438-9
Website: http://www.sti.or.th Email: info@sti.or.th