Bangkok: "Commerce" has partnered with the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) to encourage 40 major listed companies to purchase six million kilograms of fruit over the next year to assist farmers.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Commerce, through the Department of Internal Trade, is spearheading this initiative by inviting 40 SET50 listed companies from sectors such as healthcare, banking, real estate, energy, insurance, and Thai retail and wholesale groups. The initiative aims to buy 6,000,000 kilograms of Thai fruits throughout the year, valued at over 240 million baht, to help stabilize produce prices and support farmers from all regions.
At a gathering at the Stock Exchange of Thailand building, Mr. Witthayakorn Maneenet, Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, highlighted the collaboration between public and private sectors to aid fruit farmers in the eastern region. Mr. Pichai Chunhavajira, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, joined senior executives from 40 SET50 companies to discuss the importance of such cooperation. The effort is part of a broader mission for the Stock Exchange of Thailand and its listed companies to contribute to the sustainable development of the economy and society, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for farmers, a crucial sector of the nation.
Mr. Witthayakorn remarked that the Department of Internal Trade has engaged with companies from various industries, including hospitals, banks, and retail groups, to absorb the remaining fruit produce from the eastern region. The plan also includes purchasing fruits from the southern region, such as durians, longans, and mangosteens, as well as northern fruits like lychees, oranges, and pineapples. This initiative involves the acquisition of 6,000,000 kilograms of mixed fruits, valued at 240 million baht, over a year, representing the largest procurement of this kind in collaboration with listed companies.
He further explained that listed companies, with their substantial market influence, will play a pivotal role in the agricultural sector as buyers for resale, processing, employee welfare, or social activities (CSR). The Department of Internal Trade will facilitate connections between these companies and community enterprises or large-scale fruit farmers to ensure the delivery of quality Thai fruits.
Mr. Witthayakorn expressed gratitude towards the private sector and the Stock Exchange of Thailand for their comprehensive support in aiding farmers. This partnership not only aims to mitigate the immediate challenges faced by farmers but also seeks to bolster the grassroots economy, showcasing the Thai private sector's commitment to societal welfare.