The Commerce Ministry of Thailand is addressing the issue of declining fruit prices by expediting the distribution of 950,000 tons of produce both domestically and internationally. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan highlighted the ministry's collaboration with various organizations to implement strategies that encompass production, marketing, export, processing, and trade facilitation. The initiative aims to effectively distribute the surplus fruit.
The Department of Internal Trade (DIT), in partnership with major retail chains such as Siam Paragon, Central, The Mall, and CP Axtra, will launch fruit promotion activities. These efforts are designed to enhance distribution channels for farmers as the harvest season commences.
In addition, the DIT has joined forces with agricultural associations, fertiliser producers, and the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry to introduce the "Affordable Fertiliser Programme 2025." This program offers quality fertiliser at discounts of up to 1.35 US$ per sack, featuring over 79 different formulas. A total of 10.06 million sacks will be available from 26 suppliers nationwide.
Minister Pichai also mentioned ongoing negotiations for free trade agreements (FTAs) with the European Union, South Korea, and an ASEAN-Canada pact, intending to finalize these agreements by the end of the year. "Once completed, these FTAs will enhance Thailand's trade connections with over 50 countries, creating greater opportunities for exporters and investors to explore new markets," he stated.
The ministry has also upgraded the Thai Select certification mark, ensuring the authentic taste of Thai food products and restaurants both domestically and internationally. The new logo features an orchid-shaped star of honour, and restaurants are now categorized into four tiers: Thai Select 1 Star, 2 Stars, 3 Stars, and Thai Select Casual. This classification includes a range of establishments from budget-friendly to high-end.
Minister Pichai noted the ministry's aim to certify more Thai restaurants overseas with the Thai Select mark and to encourage them to source ingredients from Thailand, thereby boosting agricultural exports.
Source: Bangkok Post