While digital tools like AI and IoT sensors are becoming more common in global agriculture, they often operate in silos, preventing farmers from seeing the "big picture." To solve this fragmentation, Thailand’s National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) have developed AgriNEXT—an integrated platform designed to turn raw data into actionable intelligence.
AgriNEXT is not just a single tool but a comprehensive ecosystem that merges two critical technologies:
- WiMaRC (IoT): A network of ground-based wireless sensors that monitor real-time environmental factors such as soil moisture, ambient temperature, light intensity, and wind speed.
- REM (Satellite Imagery): Remote Environmental Monitoring that tracks plant density, crop health, and soil surface moisture from a macro perspective.
By feeding both ground-level and satellite data into a centralized AI engine, AgriNEXT provides a holistic view of the plantation. This allows for "precision management"—the ability to apply water, fertilizer, and pesticides only where and when they are needed.
Beyond increasing yields, the platform is built with a focus on modern environmental standards. By optimizing resource use, AgriNEXT helps agribusinesses reduce their carbon footprint and transition toward sustainable practices. The AI’s predictive capabilities also allow for more accurate yield forecasting, helping companies manage supply chains and mitigate risks from climate volatility and disease.
The technology has already moved beyond the lab. In 2025, the research team collaborated with the National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC) to monitor the efficiency of NANO nCote, a controlled-release fertilizer.
The trial took place in the rice fields of Northeast Thailand (Roi Et and Si Sa Ket provinces). By using AgriNEXT, researchers could compare the growth rates of rice treated with nano-fertilizer versus traditional methods in real-time, providing the data necessary to refine sustainable farming protocols.
Currently in its advanced R&D phase, AgriNEXT is being positioned for large-scale agribusinesses and industrial-scale plantations. The platform is particularly suited for high-value and commodity crops, including:
- Rice & Sugarcane
- Durian (for high-precision moisture control)
- Cassava, Palm Oil, and Rubber
For international stakeholders, the platform offers a robust traceability system, which is increasingly required for global agricultural exports to meet international quality and sustainability certifications.
NECTEC is currently seeking partners to integrate and scale AgriNEXT for commercial use. For more information, international organizations can contact Dr. Opas Trithaveesak at the Digital Agriculture Research Team (NECTEC) via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..