Abstract
This study aimed to examine the costs and benefits and scrutinize the factors determining the profitability of organic rice farming in Sakon Nakhon, Thailand, to address the financial challenges faced by producers. The study employed a cross-sectional design and a multistage sampling method to select 300 organic rice farmers as respondents. Data collection was conducted through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Cost-benefit analysis, net profit margin assessment, and binary logistic regression modeling were employed for data analysis. Results revealed that the organic rice farming business is profitable, generating an average net profit of $2,029.81 per crop/ha, with a net profit margin of 37.39%. These findings indicate that organic rice production in the study area is highly profitable for small-scale farmers. Statistical analysis identified that farmers’ training, off-farm income, organic rice farming size, and expenditure on organic pest control products are significantly associated with profitability (p < 0.01). The study concludes that although organic rice farming can be profitable, policy interventions should prioritize enhancing the effectiveness of training programs through practical applications, encouraging larger-scale operations to improve efficiency, and supporting optimal pest management.