Buriram Rice Farmers Struggle with Rising Costs and Seek Government Support
Rice farmers in Buriram are facing significant financial pressure due to high production costs and are calling for government assistance as they prepare for the upcoming harvest.
As the 2026/27 rice harvest season approaches in mid-November, farmers in the Som Poi sub-district of Buriram province are expressing deep concern over the rising costs of production. According to a report by Khaosod Online, local farmers are struggling with the high prices of fertilizer and fuel, which have significantly increased their financial burden. In response to these economic challenges, many farmers are planning to store their harvested rice in barns rather than selling it immediately at the start of the season. They hope that by delaying sales, they can wait for market prices to improve. Farmers are specifically calling on the government to expedite promised harvest support payments to help offset their expenses. Many are aiming for a market price of 15,000 baht per ton, noting that prices have remained below 10,000 baht per ton in recent years. While some farmers, such as Korin Champathong, anticipate a slightly higher yield this year compared to the last, the overall sentiment remains one of caution. For residents and visitors, this situation highlights the ongoing economic volatility in the agricultural sector, which remains a cornerstone of the local economy. It remains to be confirmed how the government will respond to these requests for financial aid and whether market prices will meet the farmers' expectations.
