Bangkok:Supajee Suthamphan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, has highlighted the rising prices of key Thai agricultural products, including rice, rubber, cassava, and corn. She emphasized the importance of implementing measures to stabilize rice prices amid these increases.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Supajee noted that while the current prices of these commodities are favorable, particularly rice, there is a need to maintain and stabilize them, especially during the high production periods of the ongoing rice harvest. She stressed that the Ministry of Commerce is focused on preventing price drops and seeking additional export markets, despite the challenges posed by higher prices in international competition.

Ms. Supajee also pointed out the strong performance of the rubber sector, with prices reaching their highest levels in decades. This rise is attributed to the demand from major markets such as the United States and China. In contrast, cassava faces challenges due to limited production volume stemming from cassava mosaic disease, highlighting the need for disease management in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives.

The price of animal feed corn has seen an increase due to controlled import timing, but Ms. Supajee warned against excessive import controls that could lead to shortages and affect meat and egg prices. She emphasized the importance of improving production efficiency through better yields and quality control.

Additionally, Ms. Supajee discussed the impact of excise tax reduction measures for E20 and B20 fuels, which are supporting the use of bioenergy and increasing demand for raw materials like palm oil, sugarcane, and cassava. These measures are part of broader efforts to enhance rural household incomes and sustain grassroots purchasing power.

The Ministry of Commerce is also preparing for a joint press conference with the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Industry to provide farmers with long-term planning clarity regarding purchase prices and quantities required. Furthermore, discussions are underway with various industry associations to educate the public on biofuel suitability and to promote bioenergy use.

In response to potential flood risks, the Ministry is coordinating with manufacturers and retailers to ensure stock availability and prevent supply chain disruptions, thereby safeguarding consumer purchasing power and managing living costs.