Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce has introduced a six-point plan aimed at addressing long-term trade issues, including curbing wholesale trade and controlling fertilizer prices. The plan seeks to implement sustainable structural solutions across the entire supply chain-upstream, midstream, and downstream-to enhance pricing and ensure fairness for all stakeholders involved.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Commerce emphasized that its approach to agricultural product issues extends beyond day-to-day problem-solving. The ministry is committed to establishing a long-term foundation that encompasses the entire supply chain to ensure fair pricing for farmers, businesses, and consumers concurrently.
In the case of durian, the Ministry is proactively seeking markets ahead of time to prevent oversupply. They are promoting durian consumption domestically and internationally through innovative channels such as live streaming and online platforms. Additionally, the ministry is cracking down on wholesalers exploiting farmers and collaborating with relevant agencies to prosecute those selling unripe durian.
For palm oil prices, the Ministry, in collaboration with relevant parties, manages the palm oil system to balance consumption, energy use, and exports. It confirms that the export permit requirement is a measure to maintain stock balance rather than restrict exports and aims to improve palm oil prices according to market mechanisms.
Regarding fragrant coconuts, the Ministry has expedited efforts to purchase coconuts at above-market prices to boost farm-gate prices. It is promoting "community coconut packing houses" to support farmers, reduce price manipulation, and advance the production of 100% pure fragrant coconut water. Measures are also being implemented to classify fragrant coconuts as a controlled commodity to protect farmers and consumers.
In response to high fertilizer prices, the Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and working with fertilizer associations to prevent excessive price increases. The "Green Flag Affordable Price Plus" project is being implemented to help reduce fertilizer costs for farmers. A long-term "Fertilizer Co-payment Scheme" is also being developed in collaboration with relevant agencies.
As for the mango surplus, the Ministry has accelerated efforts to distribute excess mangoes since the beginning of the season. This includes arranging forward sales with foreign countries and connecting domestic sales through various channels to absorb the surplus production. The ministry will continue to monitor the mango situation in all areas.