Economy
Government Allocates 350 Million Baht to Combat Blackchin Tilapia Spread
Thai authorities have approved a 350 million baht budget to implement seven existing measures against the invasive blackchin tilapia, which has now reached Kalasin province.
On September 16, 2026, Matichon Online reported that Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Watcharapol, chaired a meeting involving 29 government agencies to address the ongoing crisis regarding the invasive blackchin tilapia. The committee officially approved the utilization of 350 million baht from the central budget to continue seven established mitigation measures.
This decision follows the recent detection of the invasive species in Kalasin province, indicating that the fish continues to spread into new areas. The allocated funds are intended to support ongoing efforts to control the population of this predatory fish, which poses a significant threat to local aquatic ecosystems and the livelihoods of small-scale fishermen.
For residents and travelers, this development highlights the government's continued focus on environmental management and the protection of local water resources. While the measures are currently being deployed, the long-term effectiveness of these strategies in curbing the spread remains to be confirmed. Authorities have not yet provided a detailed timeline for the completion of these specific interventions, and stakeholders are advised to monitor local updates regarding water usage and fishing regulations in affected provinces.
