Commerce Minister Jatuporn Buruspat acknowledged the difficult conditions in Thailand's longan industry, which some have described as a crisis.
On Sunday, he led a delegation of officials to Chanthaburi to review border trade conditions and examine challenges facing exports of the fruit. The meeting took place at the International Mangrove Botanical Garden in tambon Nong Bua and was attended by Chanthaburi provincial governor Monsit Paisalthanawat, along with representatives from public and private sectors.
Local business representatives raised several issues, including a slowdown in trade and tourism between Thailand and Cambodia caused by border tensions, which they said is harming the economy. They also pointed to a shortage of labour in longan orchards and the rejection of shipments to China due to unsafe levels of sulfur dioxide residues.
Jatuporn said the ministry is aware of the problems and is coordinating with stakeholders to address them. He added that he will hold discussions with the Chinese ambassador to Thailand this week to seek a solution regarding the export issue.
"This is not an easy matter, as it involves China's strict regulations, but the government must accelerate negotiations so that farmers can sell their produce," he said.
Source: Bangkok Post
