NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND - Thailand's orchid growers, already weary after two years of being battered by the pandemic, are bracing for fresh blows to their livelihood asOnce considered a popular pastime among the elite in Thailand, orchid growing has developed into a multi-million dollar industry, and the kingdom is the world's biggest producer and exporter of cut orchids.
He grows Dendrobium Sonia orchids - a hybrid variety with delicate white and purple petals. Popular in Japan, China and the United States, they are used for anything from religious ceremonies to college graduations. Covid-19 and Russia's invasion of Ukraine have sent the price of fertilisers and pesticides up by 30 percent, he said.
While Mr Somchai delivers his produce directly overseas, the majority of orchid growers in Thailand use large exporters based in Bangkok.