Supachee Explains Senate Inquiry on New Marketing Strategy Using Influencers to Help Farmers Avoid Roadside Sales
Deputy Prime Minister Supachee Suthammaphan addressed Senate concerns about delays in a major Chanthaburi fruit management center project that has faced repeated postponements despite government approvals. She outlined plans for a comprehensive approach including cold storage facilities, agricultural product processing, and innovative marketing strategies featuring both Chinese and Thai influencers to help farmers increase income without roadside sales.
Deputy PM Supachee Explained Senate Inquiry on New Marketing Strategy Using Influencers to Help Farmers Avoid Roadside Sales
On April 27, 2569, during a Senate session chaired by General Kriengsak Sriraksa, First Deputy Speaker of the Senate, Senator Yukul Chanawatwattanpanya raised questions to Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachee Suthammaphan regarding delays in the Chanthaburi circular fruit management center project. Despite two government approvals and successful community consultation, local orchard farmers have lost sales opportunities to foreign capital groups that undercut prices on Thai agricultural products.
The project, which has been studied for over 20 years and is fully prepared, prompted questions about when the Cabinet would advance and present it for consideration.
Supachee clarified that the government is committed to improving agricultural management. Agriculture currently generates only 6% of GDP but employs 30% of the workforce, creating an imbalance. If resolved, it would improve living conditions nationwide, reflecting the government's intention to stabilize agricultural products.
However, caring for agricultural products requires integrated solutions across all sectors. During her visit to Chanthaburi, she observed proper orchards with oversight teams. When quality issues arise, they must be addressed and monitored accordingly.
"The discussion isn't limited to central markets but encompasses a comprehensive fruit management center including agricultural product processing. For durian with high yields, I've reviewed cold storage facilities to extend fruit shelf life. Regarding the raised questions, I will address them not just for central marketing but also processing to add value and increase farmer income," Supachee stated.
Supachee added that they are preparing new and continuous marketing strategies. Chinese influencers will conduct live broadcasts from Thai orchards, supported by domestic influencers promoting products. With many items requiring promotion, farmers will no longer need to sell fruits along roadsides.