Bangkok: Prime Minister Suriya emphasized his unwavering support for farmers as preparations are being made to tackle the potential impacts of El Ni±o and other global risks. He has pledged to integrate various agencies to address the challenges posed by changing weather conditions and global situations, particularly the anticipated effects of El Ni±o on agriculture. The Prime Minister also urged cooperation in preventing agricultural burning, warning of strict legal repercussions and exclusion from government projects for non-compliance.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, held discussions with Mr. Pramote Charoensilp, President of the Thai Rice Farmers and Agriculturists Association, regarding strategies to address the issues faced by rice farmers nationwide. The association plans to hold its 2026 annual general meeting on April 25-26 to collect feedback and suggestions from farmers, including concerns about unpredictable weather and the impact of Middle Eastern geopolitical circumstances. These insights will be submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture for concrete solutions.
Minister Suriya underscored that while the pricing of rice and other agricultural products falls under the Ministry of Commerce, his ministry is prepared to support related measures, particularly those concerning production inputs, to help reduce production costs for farmers.
Recently, the Department of Agriculture was tasked with assessing the nation's fertilizer needs and reserves to inform potential fertilizer imports from Russia, aiming to avert shortages and prevent domestic prices from soaring amid volatile global market conditions. Additional import sources will boost competitiveness and alleviate initial price pressures. Currently, urea fertilizer from Russia costs approximately US$800-850 per ton, with transportation costs not exceeding US$90 per ton. An import quota of 1-2 million tons has been requested, but the final quantity will be determined based on necessity, prioritizing farmer benefits. Details on the type and price of fertilizer will be negotiated between private sectors of both countries.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives is also enforcing measures to combat agricultural burning by promoting a Green Agriculture system to reduce PM2.5 dust pollution and enhance sustainable production. Violators will face prosecution and disqualification from farmer support programs between April 1, 2026, and March 31, 2028, except in cases of agricultural disaster relief.
As preparations for the main rice-growing season begin, Mr. Winairoj Sapsongsook, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has instructed relevant agencies to convene the Center for Monitoring and Resolving Agricultural Disaster Problems. This is to develop strategies to address drought and geopolitical impacts.
The ENSO phenomenon currently appears normal, but there is a likelihood of transitioning to an El Ni±o phase during May-July 2026, which could lead to early-season drought. Consequently, the Royal Irrigation Department has been directed to integrate data and plan water management proactively to satisfy both agricultural and domestic water needs.
The Ministry of Agriculture emphasized the importance of managing agricultural areas while preserving watershed areas. This mission is crucial for balancing production and environmental preservation to address uncertainties from weather patterns and global situations, ensuring long-term sustainability of natural resources and food security.