The Department of Internal Trade discusses with farmers, mills, exporters and related agencies. Follow the situation of rice production in 2023/24. Initially, it is expected to decrease by 3% due to the drought, but we must wait and see clarity on the amount of water in early October again. As for rice management measures. It has been proposed to increase stocks by farmers, cooperatives, mills, exporters and traders. And farmers are asked to consider a subsidy of 1,000 baht per rai, not more than 20 rai, to prepare for collection before submitting the NCB for consideration.
Mr. Wattanasak Suea-iam, Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, revealed that the Department received the policy of Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce. who were assigned to follow up on the rice production situation Listen to opinions and suggestions from all relevant sectors, including the public and private sectors, as well as farmers. To collect suggestions and guidelines for maintaining effective rice price stability. Able to solve problems to the point and create value. The benefits of all sectors, both farmers and consumers, must be taken into account. as well as opportunities for Thai rice in the world market
In this regard, the Department has organized a meeting with 4 farmer associations, including the Thai Farmers and Farmers Association. Thai Rice Farmers Association Thai Farmers Promotion Association Association for the Promotion of Northeastern Farmers, Mills, Exporters, Traders and Related Government Agencies Recently following the situation of paddy production in the production year 2023/24, it was found that according to the Office of Agricultural Economics (A.S.A.), the amount of paddy production this year is expected to be at 25.76 million tons, decreased from the previous year at 26.63 million tons. decreased by 3%, partly expected to be affected by the drought But still need to monitor the rainfall situation. In early October 2023 again, the amount of rice production in 2023/24 can be more clearly assessed.
However, in the proposed guidelines for rice management measures for the year 2023/24, it is proposed to increase stocks for farmers, cooperatives, mills, exporters, and traders. This will help both in maintaining price stability and having sufficient rice stocks for domestic consumption. Meanwhile, farmers have offered to help with management costs and improving the quality of rice farmers' produce at 1,000 baht per rai, not more than 20 rai, or not more than 20,000 baht/household. The Department will collect all proposals. and present to the National Rice Policy Committee (NRCT) to consider measures and guidelines for efficient and effective rice management for the production year 2023/24.
In addition, recently Mr. Phumtham He also ordered the department to increase the strictness of inspections of weights and measures in the trading of agricultural products. To be precise To ensure fairness to farmers The department has organized a special patrol team to go to the area to inspect continuously. If the scale is found to be incorrect or inaccurate Strict legal action will be taken. As for farmers, if they see or do not receive fair dealing in agricultural products. You can continue to report it at the Department of Internal Trade hotline 1569.
Source: Thai News Agency