BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Commerce has approved eight measures to manage fruit prices in 2026, as total output is projected to reach 6.91 million metric tons, an increase of 5.8 percent from last year. Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun chaired a recent meeting with government and private-sector representatives to discuss the plan, which helps stabilize prices and prevent oversupply. The measures aim to absorb 1.1 million tons of fruit, with a budget of 500 million baht.
The plan includes three production measures, two processing measures, and three marketing measures. Durian and mangosteen remain under close watch. Durian production is expected to reach about 1.8 million tons, up 21 percent, prompting efforts to expand exports and increase domestic consumption. Export volume is projected at 1.2 to 1.3 million tons, while local consumption is expected to rise to 550,000 tons. Mangosteen output is forecast to decline by 15 percent to 280,000 tons, though distribution planning remains critical due to its highly perishable nature.
Other fruits with rising output include pineapple, projected at 1.3 million tons, up 10 percent, as well as tangerines and rambutan. Longan production is expected to edge down to 1.47 million tons. Coconut prices have recovered from earlier lows, increasing by about 4 baht per fruit following accelerated distribution.
Authorities will expand domestic sales through Blue Flag networks, fresh markets, retail outlets, and processing facilities, while stepping up overseas promotions in markets such as India. Additional steps address the supply of shipping containers, certification delays, and congestion at export checkpoints. Officials are also monitoring chemical residue concerns and logistics conditions linked to Middle East tensions. Most Thai fruit exports remain concentrated in Asian markets, with more than 96 percent of durian shipments destined for China. (NNT)
