Nong khai: The Industry Committee has thrown its support behind the Community Liquor Act, aimed at stimulating economic growth by processing local fruits into liquor. The committee is keenly observing the impact of this initiative and plans to engage with relevant agencies to enhance product development and increase global market share for these agricultural products.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Akaradej Wongpitakroj, MP for Ratchaburi and a member of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, alongside his role as Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Industry, recently visited Ban Duea Community in Nong Khai Province. The purpose of the visit was to examine the local fruit processing under the new Community Liquor Act. Ban Duea Community, located along the Mekong River, is renowned for its ancient fig tree and has traditionally used figs for making various products. With the new law in effect, the community, in collaboration with the Nong Khai Provincial Industry Office, is now venturing into producing white wine from figs, thereby enhancing the value of local products and contributing to economic growth.

Mr. Akaradej emphasized the opportunities presented by the Community Liquor Act, allowing communities to transform low-value fresh produce into higher-value liquor and wine. This initiative is expected to boost both local and national economies, akin to the economic benefits seen with Japan’s sake.

He further noted that the Ban Maduea Community Enterprise serves as a model for other Thai enterprises under the Community Liquor Act. The committee plans to engage in discussions with the Excise Department, the Department of Industrial Promotion, and the Ministry of Commerce to explore further development of community products, enabling wider domestic distribution.