Official Clarification on EV Rice Harvester Costs
The Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture has refuted claims that electric rice harvesters cost 16 million baht, stating the actual price is between 1 and 2 million baht.
According to a report by Thai Post on October 16, 2026, the Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives has addressed public concerns regarding the procurement costs of electric (EV) rice harvesters. The official clarified that recent allegations suggesting each unit costs 16 million baht are inaccurate.
Instead, the Secretary stated that the actual market price for these machines ranges between 1 and 2 million baht per unit. The Ministry emphasized that all budget requests undergo rigorous internal audits to ensure transparency and fiscal responsibility. The initiative to introduce EV harvesters is intended to reduce operational costs for Thai farmers, thereby improving their overall economic efficiency.
For residents and those interested in the agricultural sector, this clarification serves to address concerns regarding the potential misuse of public funds. While the Ministry has provided these figures to counter misinformation, the specific procurement process and the long-term impact of these machines on agricultural productivity remain subjects for ongoing observation. Further details regarding the deployment schedule and the specific models being acquired have not yet been fully disclosed. The government maintains that the project is driven by a commitment to supporting the farming community through modern, cost-effective technology.
