May 31, 2025 | Bangkok Post |
In 2023, Thai fruit farmers benefited from soaring prices and strong exports, especially for durian and mangosteen. However, in 2024, fruit prices dropped sharply due to oversupply, inconsistent quality, and increased imports. Simultaneous harvests of various fruits across regions overwhelmed markets, causing price declines. Many small-scale farmers lack the resources to meet high market standards, exacerbating the problem. Expansion into new cultivation areas also added volume but lacked quality control. Exports remain key, but are challenged by non-tariff barriers, unclear standards, high costs, and global economic conditions.
To address the issue, the Thai government introduced fruit management strategies for 950,000 tons of produce. Measures include boosting domestic consumption, organizing fruit festivals, retail partnerships, farm-to-consumer sales, promoting processed fruit products, and supporting online platforms. A “war room” with trade attachés has been established to expedite exports.
Private sector leaders, while noting some market stabilization, especially in the east, expressed concern about mango and longan markets. They urged timely government intervention, including transport subsidies to redistribute surplus fruit and targeted promotions to boost domestic consumption. These measures aim to improve price stability and strengthen both domestic and international sales channels for Thai fruit.
