Kamphaeng phet: The Department of Internal Trade has initiated the "Green Flag Affordable Price Plus" fertilizer program in Kamphaeng Phet, aiming to benefit farmers by offering chemical fertilizers at reduced prices. This pilot program is set to expand to 30 provinces across Thailand, with the objective of reducing farming costs by up to 2,100 baht per household as the new planting season approaches.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chantaphat Panjamanon, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, officiated the launch of the program at Khlong Suan Mak Agricultural Cooperative Limited in Khlong Lan District, Kamphaeng Phet Province. The event, scheduled for May 6-7, is part of the "Thai Helps Thai, Reduce the Burden of Production Factors: Green Flag Affordable Price Plus" initiative. Recognizing the impact of rising chemical fertilizer prices due to increased energy costs, the department collaborated with government and private sector agencies to offer high-quality production factors at affordable prices. This initiative targets farmers cultivating rice, cassava, sugarcane, and corn.
The government has increased compensation and benefits for this assistance measure, with farmers eligible to receive up to 2,100 baht. Holders of the farmer registration book, known as the green book, can receive a discount of 300 baht per bag of fertilizer (up to 5 bags) and a 50 baht discount on agricultural chemicals, totaling a value of 1,550 baht. Additional privileges are available for farmers with a "Good Soil Card" or those who are members of a Community Soil and Fertilizer Management Center (CSFM), allowing them to purchase an additional 6 bags of fertilizer and use a 250 baht discount coupon for organic fertilizer.
The Deputy Director-General further stated that the department plans to conduct pilot events in 10 provinces, allocating budgets to provincial commerce offices in 30 provinces to ensure timely implementation during the planting season of key economic crops. Upcoming events are scheduled for Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi provinces.
The Department of Internal Trade will continue to monitor agricultural input prices and collaborate with cooperative networks nationwide to maintain price stability and fairness for farmers. Farmers are advised to prepare necessary documents to take full advantage of the benefits during the specified event dates.