Bangkok: The House of Representatives witnessed a significant political move as seven political parties united to propose an urgent motion targeting the government's ineffective measures to address the plunging rice prices. The motion, which questioned the efforts of Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and Narumon, sparked intense debate and criticism, including from coalition partners, as parties expressed frustration over the lack of effective action to support rice farmers.
According to Thai News Agency, the House meeting, chaired by Mr. Pichet Chueamuangphan, saw representatives from Pheu Thai Party, Bhumjaithai Party, Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, Prachachon Party, Chartthaipattana Party, Thai Sang Thai Party, and Kla Tham Party propose a total of seven urgent motions. These motions called for immediate consideration of strategies to aid rice farmers struggling with historically low prices and rising production costs.
Mr. Noppol Leuangthongnara, MP for Phitsanulok from the Pheu Thai Party, initiated the debate, highlighting that rice prices had reached an unprecedented low, leaving farmers without capital to settle debts. He questioned the Ministry of Commerce's inaction despite warnings about potential global price declines following India's resumption of rice exports. He criticized the government's complacency, emphasizing the dire situation and the farmers' exceptional request for assistance during the dry season.
Ms. Pimrueda Tanjararak, MP for Ayutthaya from the Bhumjaithai Party, voiced her concerns about government inaction, stressing the urgency of aiding farmers before the harvest. She criticized the government's failure to implement measures despite repeated warnings and the rising costs of fertilizers and pesticides. Pimrueda expressed frustration over the lack of clarity on the Ministry of Commerce's plans to address the crisis.
Mr. Nattawut Prasert-suwan, MP for Suphan Buri from the Chartthaipattana Party, called for immediate policy changes to address price fluctuations affecting various crops. He stressed the importance of timely intervention to prevent further economic hardship for farmers. Nattawut recalled discussions with the Minister of Commerce, highlighting the urgency expressed during an October 24 meeting to prepare for the second-crop harvest.
Opposition voices also joined the debate, with Mr. Narongdej Ularakul of the Prachachon Party questioning the efficacy of the Ministry of Commerce's measures, while Mr. Chatchawan Phetyathai from the Thai Sang Thai Party compared Thailand's approach to rice sales with Japan's more profitable method, urging a reevaluation of current strategies.
The collective motion and ensuing debate reflect mounting pressure on the government to address the rice price crisis and implement effective support measures for the country's farmers.