"Makro–Lotus" has purchased 6,000 tons of Chiang Mai onions, accelerating distribution across the country during the peak season to help stabilize agricultural prices. Farmers say this helps alleviate the price impact.
On 10 Mar 2026 GMT+7, following the Department of Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce, visiting Mae Wang District, Chiang Mai Province, to monitor the situation where a large quantity of onions entered the market from late February to March causing prices to fall, CP Axtra Public Company Limited, operating the wholesale and retail business "Makro–Lotus," responded to government policy by purchasing at prices above market rates and expediting distribution to help maintain price stability and support farmers' incomes in a concrete way.
In 2026, Makro–Lotus is buying a total of 6,000 tons of onions from Chiang Mai Province, distributing them through a network of branches nationwide to help alleviate the surplus during the peak season. Packaging is provided in 1-kilogram sizes for general consumers and 10-kilogram sizes for restaurant operators and food service businesses to enhance convenience and expand market opportunities across all customer groups.
A representative of farmers in Mae Wang District, Chiang Mai, stated that the onion market is currently affected by several factors, including an economic slowdown reducing demand, many wholesalers cutting back on inventory, and competition from imported onions. These factors have caused farmers’ product prices to decline. The cooperation between the government and Makro–Lotus working directly with local farmers to support purchasing and rapidly distribute produce widely is a crucial partnership that opens up market opportunities and significantly mitigates price impacts on farmers.
Chiang Mai is a major onion-growing area in the country, accounting for nearly 70% of total national production, approximately 25,000 tons. Especially during February to March, the volume entering the market is highest. The collaboration between the government and private sector plays an important role in stabilizing prices early in the season and building confidence among farmers.
