Politics
Thai Ministry of Commerce Launches 40 Million Baht Coconut Support Scheme
To combat falling prices, the Thai government is allocating over 46 million baht to purchase 10 million mature coconuts from local farmers.
According to Khaosod Online, the Thai Department of Internal Trade has initiated a 2026 support program to address the declining market price of mature coconuts. The government has approved a budget of 46.6 million baht from the Farmers' Assistance Fund to facilitate the purchase of 10 million coconuts, with a management subsidy of up to 4 baht per fruit.
For residents and travelers, this initiative aims to stabilize the agricultural market and prevent supply chain bottlenecks. While the program is designed to help farmers clear surplus stock and maintain income, it may also influence the availability and processing of coconut products in local markets. Provincial commerce offices are tasked with coordinating with local agricultural committees to establish collection points, with Prachuap Khiri Khan expected to be the first province to convene on the matter on August 20, 2026.
It remains to be confirmed how quickly these collection points will be operational across all affected provinces and the extent to which this intervention will impact retail prices for consumers. The Department of Internal Trade has stated it will closely monitor the project to ensure the purchase targets are met and that support reaches farmers fairly.