Thailand's Deputy Commerce Minister, Suchart Chomklin, clarified that recent reports about Chiang Mai longans selling for just 1 baht per kilogram (around $0.03) are misleading. That low price only applies to Grade C longans, small, fallen fruits unsuitable for regular sale. In contrast, high-quality Grade AA longans are selling at 19-20 baht per kg (about $0.53–$0.55), similar to last year, as reported by ThailandPlus TV.
Officials explained that about 8% of Chiang Mai's longan crop, around 22,400 tons, has hit the market. While demand from Vietnam for low-grade longans has slowed due to their own increased supply, Thai authorities are working to connect farmers with processors to help manage excess supply.
To support prices, the government plans to collect 15,000 tons of longans for export and process another 50,000 tons into dried products. They are also expanding sales channels through retail stores, online platforms, and free postal shipping. Internationally, business-matching events are being held to promote Thai longans in key markets like China, Malaysia, India, and the UAE, aiming to generate about $5.6 million in trade.
Source: Thailand Plus
