Ratchaburi: The Ratchaburi Provincial Commerce Office convened a crucial meeting with the Senate's Committee on Commerce and Industry to address the ongoing crisis in fragrant coconut pricing and to implement control measures on nominee-operated wholesalers. The meeting focused on reiterating seven strategic guidelines to effectively manage the fragrant coconut supply chain. Among the key issues discussed were the enforcement of strict regulations against illegal coconut packing houses and the employment of undocumented labor. Recent reports have surfaced, indicating that certain foreign-owned packing houses have ceased purchasing produce from farmers due to fears of a further price drop, which currently fluctuates between 2 to 5 baht per fruit.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Thoranin Banyongvorapinit, the Commerce Provincial Officer of Ratchaburi, participated in the meeting alongside officials from the Ratchaburi Provincial Commerce Office and related agencies. The session, chaired by Senator Tuangkhun Songthamwattana, aimed to devise effective solutions to the problem of plummeting coconut prices and to provide actionable recommendations to relevant agencies.

The meeting outlined crucial strategies, including integrating the management of the coconut system at a structural policy level to address medium-to-long-term challenges. It was proposed to regulate trade and competition by registering fruit collectors and packers, inspecting export standards, promoting farmer groups, and investigating the use of nominees to prevent monopolies and unfair competition. There was also consideration of implementing price support measures during crises and promoting the development of a national coconut brand.

In terms of production and information systems, the meeting called for the disclosure of land ownership information to prevent nominee ownership and advocated for creating a systematic database of cultivated areas. Additionally, the use of technology to reduce costs and enhance quality was encouraged.

Labor and on-site regulation were also focal points, with calls to monitor illegal fruit packing houses and undocumented labor, and to promote business registration. Furthermore, measures to control production and processing standards, establish certification marks, and verify the authenticity of fragrant coconut varieties were discussed to boost market standards and confidence.

The committee emphasized the importance of processing, research, and innovation, advocating for the development of processing technologies and quality control to add value to products. A comprehensive research plan to support the entire coconut system was also proposed. Long-term measures for plant variety protection were highlighted, including controlling movement and preventing export of coconut varieties from the country.

A pressing concern highlighted at the meeting was the need to expand domestic and international markets, establish central processing plants, and develop the capabilities of Thai entrepreneurs to become exporters. The rigorous enforcement of laws to protect farmers from price manipulation and ensure fairness in the trading system was also underscored.

Reporters have noted that as of yesterday, March 2, 2026, several coconut packing houses in Ratchaburi province have halted the purchase of fragrant coconuts from farmers. This move is believed to be in response to rumors of price suppression by packing houses processing coconut water for export to China. Consequently, some businesses have temporarily suspended purchases, potentially until March 5, leaving numerous trucks parked along roadsides and forcing farmers to seek alternative collection and packing plants still open for business.

This situation has generated significant concern among farmers, who fear that coconut prices, which had previously fallen to 2 baht per fruit before increasing to 4-5 baht per fruit due to interventions by the Ministry of Commerce, might decline once again.