Sisaket: Shallots, a prized product from Sisaket province, are being leveraged to connect markets and target the ASEAN market, aiming to absorb and export over 7,000 tons. The Ministry of Commerce is ready to implement three measures to drive prices up.

According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Internal Trade recently visited Sisaket province to monitor the situation of shallots during the peak production season and is accelerating proactive measures across the system. Three main measures are being pursued: export support, connecting private sector buyers with above-market prices, and establishing forward contracts through contract markets. The goal is to absorb over 7,000 tons of shallots to stabilize prices and generate tangible income for farmers.

Mr. Jirawut Suwannach, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, stated, 'The Department of Internal Trade is visiting the area to monitor the situation and connect markets to accommodate the shallot production. January is considered the peak season for shallot production, especially in Sisaket province, a major producer accounting for over 70% of the country's production. Therefore, the Department of Internal Trade is accelerating proactive production management measures to connect and distribute 7,000 tons of shallots through three main measures.

The first measure involves accelerating exports to neighboring countries, especially Malaysia, with a target of 5,000 tons to enhance competitiveness. A purchasing plan will be implemented in three phases: January 7-11, 2026, at 11 baht per kilogram; January 12-16, 2026, at 12 baht per kilogram; and January 17-21, 2026, at 13 baht per kilogram. This aims to incentivize farmers to delay harvesting and focus on harvesting high-quality, large shallots, which are in demand in the market.

The second measure focuses on purchasing and distributing to the domestic market through connections between entrepreneurs, wholesalers, and retailers nationwide at a market-leading price of 11 baht per kilogram, with a target of 500 tons.

The third measure utilizes a 'contract market,' a mechanism for connecting farmers and businesses through forward trading, to reduce price pressure and absorb produce from the area at the source, with a target of at least 1,500 tons.