Sustainability Journal: DoiTung Coffee: Brewing Change

Every cup of DoiTung coffee represents more than just a beverage. It supports the hill tribe communities in Doi Tung, Chiang Rai, helping local farmers preserve forests, combat deforestation, and introduce Thai coffee to the global market.

Doi Tung, located in the Golden Triangle, was once known for drug production, a region scarred by deforestation and poverty. The introduction of Arabica coffee, which thrives in the shaded environment of dense forests that can be found here, replacing harmful crops like opium, was a turning point.

DoiTung Coffee emerged under the DoiTung brand, an initiative of the DoiTung Development Project (DTDP), which was founded in 1988 by the Mae Fah Luang Foundation under royal patronage. The project created a model of sustainable development focused on self-reliance, job creation, and forest conservation.

Empowerment of Farmers

“The initiative currently supports and purchases coffee from approximately 850 to 1,000 households across 22 villages, spanning roughly 3,000 hectares of land,” explains Sitthinadda Paphavasit, Manager of Special Projects at the Mae Fah Luang Foundation. “Our approach focuses on precision agriculture, which improves farmers’ incomes and restores the forests of Doi Tung.”

While DoiTung has traditionally overseen every stage of coffee production, from selecting superior beans to processing, manufacturing, and distribution, one of its key objectives has been to empower local farmers to cultivate and process high-quality coffee independently. As a result, several farmers have achieved self-sufficiency and no longer rely on the project’s support.

From Alternative Crops to Quality Coffee

DoiTung Coffee represents more than just sustainability—it delivers a high-quality product. The project has carefully developed coffee varieties and refined processing techniques. Their GAYO coffee strain has won the Cup of Excellence Award, a global recognition of exceptional coffee production. Other varieties like Caturra and Bourbon have also established a reputation in the international market.

“Although our coffee is marketed as Commercial Grade, each batch receives Specialty Grade treatment,” Sitthinadda notes. “We rigorously inspect every batch, and our farmers’ data is fully transparent. Consumers can trace their coffee’s origins, harvest date, and quality score.”

Where to Find DoiTung

DoiTung Coffee products, including roasted and drip coffee, are available at over 20 DoiTung stores and leading department stores. The brand also offers other community products like macadamia nuts, ceramics, woven fabrics, and Sa paper.
Visit www.doitung.com for more information.

• A Special In-Flight Blend

THAI passengers can enjoy the Black Silk Blend, a collaboration between DoiTung and THAI. This premium drip coffee combines medium and dark roasts, creating a smooth profile with dark chocolate and caramel notes. Served in Royal First and Royal Silk Class, it showcases the best of Thai coffee.

By choosing DoiTung Coffee, you support a sustainable future for both community and environment.

Inspired to visit Chiang Rai? Fly to Chiang Rai with Thai Airways!