Supachai revealed a plan to engage Chinese and Thai influencers for live broadcasts to help farmers sell their produce, while criticizing senators for accusing officials of 'speculating' during palm oil stock inspections.
On 27 April 2026 at the Parliament, during a Senate meeting chaired by General Kriangkrai Srirak, Deputy Senate President, questions regarding agricultural product management were considered. Ms. Supachai Suthumpun, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, provided clarifications.
Senator Yukol Chanawattpanya questioned the progress of establishing a comprehensive fruit management center in Chanthaburi Province, noting delays despite multiple approvals and public hearings. He said this caused farmers to lose opportunities and allowed foreign investors to suppress prices.
Ms. Supachai explained that the Ministry of Commerce is not focusing solely on creating a central market but emphasizes comprehensive fruit management, including quality inspections at packing houses and processing to add value. A key strategy is adopting new marketing methods by involving influencers from China and Thailand to live-stream sales of fruit directly from Thai packing houses, aiming to quickly deliver products to consumers. This approach will help farmers increase income and avoid having to sell fruit roadside as in the past.
Later, Senator Seranee Anibol questioned the issue of falling palm oil prices, stating that farmers were pressured by quality inspections based solely on visual assessment, resulting in oil content percentages lower than reality. He urged Commerce Ministry officials to inspect actual stock on site and warned against 'speculating' in reports.
This statement prompted Ms. Supachai to respond with a stern tone, explaining that crude palm oil prices follow global market mechanisms. Currently, prices in Malaysia are at 37.48 baht per kilogram, while in Thailand they are 38 baht per kilogram, which reduces export incentives.
At the same time, Ms. Supachai rebutted the use of the term 'speculating,' calling it unconstructive and disrespectful to civil servants who are dedicated to their work. She affirmed that the ministry operates efficiently and transparently and that criticisms should be based on mutual respect to ensure smooth collaboration.