Charoen Pokphand Foods Plc (CPF) plans to invest 20 billion to 25 billion baht in 2027, with artificial intelligence (AI) expected to take a larger share of its budget, the Bangkok Post reported Oct. 23.
Chief Executive Prasit Boondoungprasert has not provided an exact AI allocation. AI-related investment could reach about twice its previous level, the newspaper reported, while CPF is still gathering budget requests from its business units. The expected rollout spans functions such as production facilities, sales and marketing. CPF's capital spending has typically targeted machinery and equipment, especially automation, according to the report.
Prasit described AI as part of a broader technology mix at CPF, alongside automation and biotechnology in manufacturing. Farm applications could help estimate crop yields and monitor animal health. Factory systems could anticipate maintenance needs, while supply operations may use AI to improve planning and product traceability. CPF also sees potential to tailor offerings to customers. The company says it remains focused on improving products and production efficiency.
Prasit linked the greater importance countries have placed on food security over the past five years to climate change and geopolitical conflicts. He cited Thailand's climate and location as potential advantages for food production and supplying international markets. He also questioned whether the country is ready for emerging challenges and changing climate conditions.
CPF plans to invest in local workers to help farmers and small and midsize businesses compete, the report said. Prasit also pointed to Thai cuisine's rising popularity abroad as an opportunity to promote ready-to-eat Thai meals in international markets.
