Bangkok: 'Pichai', the Minister of Commerce, has initiated discussions with Pheu Thai MPs to address the issue of agricultural product prices, exchange information, and gather suggestions.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pichai Naripthaphan, along with Mr. Phongsakorn Annopprapon and Mr. Worawong Ramangkura, Assistant Ministers to the Minister of Commerce, and Mr. Kunakorn Preechachanachai, Advisor to the Minister of Commerce, participated in a meeting with MPs from the Pheu Thai Party. The meeting included MP Pimpicha Chaisuphakitcharoen from Phitsanulok Province, MP Bhumipat Phacharathap from Nakhon Phanom Province, MP Wirat Phimphanit from Kalasin Province, MP Chakrawat Chaiwiratnukul from Sukhothai Province, MP Thitima Chaisaeng from Chachoengsao Province, MP Chuchai Mungcharoenphon from Surin Province, and former MP Chuwit Pitakpornpallop from Ubon Ratchathani Province.
The discussion focused on gathering suggestions and concerns from MPs, who communicated the issues faced by villagers. The meeting highlighted the ongoing problem of declining agricultural product prices, a significant issue for farmers across various provinces. Specific challenges include the drop in rice prices due to increased production and decreased exports, as India resumed exports at lower prices. Additionally, the demand for cassava in the Chinese market has decreased as China now grows more corn, which is a cheaper alternative for producing alcohol.
Urgent strategies have been laid out to enhance production quality and identify favorable markets for agricultural products, especially rice. These strategies involve promoting in-demand rice varieties, supporting cost-reduction methods, and implementing additional measures to tackle field burning issues. The Ministry of Commerce plans to present these issues to the Rice Policy and Management Committee (RPMC), chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Pichai Chunhavachira, for swift consideration of various interventions.
Regarding cassava, there is a strategic plan to collaborate with government and private sectors to develop cassava varieties resistant to mosaic disease, aiming to curb its spread and increase production. Efforts are also being made to explore new export markets beyond China.