Bangkok: The Ministry of Commerce has announced a multi-faceted approach to support longan farmers, aligning efforts with both government and private sectors to manage a significant increase in produce. These efforts include promoting exports, establishing a War Room for real-time situation monitoring, and implementing emergency measures if needed. The Ministry of Agriculture is also contributing to bolster farmer support.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, Director of the Office of Trade Policy and Strategy and spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce, addressed criticisms regarding the government's preparedness in tackling the longan production surge. Mr. Chatuporn Buruspat, the Minister of Commerce, emphasized the importance of stabilizing agricultural product prices and resolving systemic issues to sustainably counteract low agricultural product prices. He has tasked Deputy Minister Mr. Suchart Chomklin with overseeing the situation in the northern region.
The spokesperson detailed that the longan yield in eight northern provinces, including Chiang Mai and Lamphun, has reached 1,064,242 tons, marking an increase from the previous year's 947,140 tons due to favorable weather conditions. To manage this, the Ministry of Commerce has implemented a comprehensive fruit management strategy with seven measures and 25 plans targeting both domestic and international markets, aiming to distribute 950,000 tons of fruit, particularly northern longan.
During a visit to the region, Mr. Suchart engaged with farmers and instructed the Department of Internal Trade to expedite proactive measures to assist longan farmers in product distribution and market expansion. Key measures include facilitating longan exports, promoting domestic consumption through the Thai Fruits Festival 2025, and connecting farmers with large retail networks. The Ministry is also fostering partnerships with the private sector for corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, supporting packaging solutions, and developing new distribution channels.
In addition to these efforts, Mr. Suchart has initiated the establishment of a War Room for ongoing situation analysis and emergency response planning. Internationally, the focus is on opening new markets and enhancing e-commerce channels to boost exports to countries like China and India.
Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Mr. Atthakorn Sirilathayakorn, shared plans to enhance longan orchard quality in Chiang Mai Province with a 1 billion baht project. This initiative includes financial support for orchard maintenance and production costs, alongside coordination with security agencies to address labor shortages during peak harvest times.