BANGKOK, 13 April 2015 (NNT)
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has recommended related officials to further
develop farmers’ markets in a bid to assist Thai farmers amidst economic uncertainty.
According to Government Spokesperson Dr Yongyuth Mayalarp, Prime Minister
Prayut remains deeply concerned with the well-being of Thai agriculturists. He has
thus instructed officials previously involved in the setting up of farmers’ markets
nationwide to seek ways to further promote and raise the standard of such markets.
The premier reportedly suggested the holding of contests for farmers’ markets in
various aspects, such as sanitation, management and product diversity. Business
matching activities are also to be arranged with an aim to facilitate the establishment
of networks of farmers and OTOP producers.
In addition, there are plans to promote the farmers’ market in each district or province
into a new local tourist attraction. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports will lend its
help in improving the markets and ensuring their readiness to welcome tourists.
The Prime Minister stressed to market supervisors that it is crucial to strictly regulate
vendors who are allowed to operate in the farmers’ markets, saying they must be
registered farmers and not middlemen in disguise. The prohibition of middlemen
would enable the farmers to deal with consumers directly and, in turn, increase their
income.
