Phitsanulok: Chatuporn Buruspat, the Minister of Commerce, recently embarked on an extensive tour of Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Nakhon Sawan provinces, focusing on monitoring commodity prices and addressing farmer concerns.
According to Thai News Agency, the visits are part of a broader initiative to enhance the competitiveness of Thai farmers and ensure stable rice prices.
During his visit, Mr. Chatuporn assessed consumer goods prices at the Municipal Market 1 in Phitsanulok, where he found prices within normal limits. The inspection revealed pork prices between 160-180 baht per kilogram and chicken breast and thighs at 90-100 baht per kilogram. The Minister highlighted the importance of maintaining appropriate price controls to facilitate normal shopping activities among consumers.
In response to recent floods, Mr. Chatuporn distributed relief bags to affected residents in Bang Rakam District, Phitsanulok. The Ministry of Commerce, alongside the Department of Internal Trade, has launched the "Fah Thong Rae Yaowarat" project to offer essential goods like palm oil and rice at special prices, aiming to alleviate the financial strain on flood victims.
Additionally, Mr. Chatuporn is spearheading the "Green Flag" project, designed to lower agricultural costs by offering fertilizers and pesticides at reduced prices. This initiative is expected to enhance the long-term competitiveness of Thai farmers.
In Phichit Province, the Minister inspected the Geographical Indication (GI) product "Pomelo" and engaged with local farmers. The discussions emphasized the "Green Flag" project's role in cost reduction and encouraged improvements in product quality to meet market demands. Such measures are intended to generate stable community income.
The final leg of Mr. Chatuporn's tour took him to Kao Liao District in Nakhon Sawan, where he addressed the challenges posed by low rice prices. With prices falling to 5,000-6,000 baht per cart, farmers are advocating for an increase to 8,000 baht per cart. The Minister discussed the purchasing process with rice mills and highlighted the need to resolve rice price issues from their source.
In pursuit of long-term solutions, the Ministry of Commerce is coordinating with the Ministry of Agriculture to boost production capacity and exploring new export markets in China, Saudi Arabia, and Japan. Furthermore, Mr. Chatuporn announced plans for compensating farmers growing off-season rice at 1,000 baht per rai, with a decision anticipated at the National Rice Policy and Administration Committee meeting on August 13th.