An Analysis of Ethanol Supply Chain in Thailand

Abstract:

This paper aims to analyze ethanol supply chain in Thailand. The analysis covered three main parts: supply chain structure, material flow and related costs in supply chain. The results showed that Thai ethanol supply chain is complex because it involves many stakeholders in both public and private agencies. Molasses and cassava are the main feedstocks of ethanol production in Thailand, so the upstream suppliers of ethanol supply chain are sugarcane and cassava farmers, and the collectors. The feedstocks cost of ethanol plants is high due to the fluctuation of sugarcane and cassava price. There is also a trade barrier to control both production and transportation of ethanol because it under the Liquor Act. Moreover, the distribution of ethanol has low efficiency and long distance of truck transport contribute to high transportation cost. Consequently, logistics system of Thai ethanol supply chain should be improved more efficient in order to support demand expansion of ethanol industry.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volumes 931-932)
• Pages: 1676-1682
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.931-932.1676
• Online since: May 2014
• Authors: Rojanee Homchalee, Sirawadee Arunyanart, Weerapat Sessomboon*
• Keywords: Ethanol, Ethanol Cost, Supply Chain, Thailand

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