Minister Suriya pointed out that resolving the black-chinned catfish issue systematically will yield concrete results within three months. Deputy Minister Watcharapol revealed plans to use the remaining 350 million baht from the 2024 budget framework for decisive and orderly management of the problem.
At 09:50 on 15 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, gave an interview at the Government House regarding the signing of the order to establish the "Command Center for Monitoring and Resolving the Black-Chinned Catfish Outbreak". , with Mr. Watcharapol Khawkhum, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, appointed as director of the center, stating that the issue of the black-chinned catfish is a national-level concern. If left unchecked, the outbreak will affect ecosystems and farmers’ livelihoods, so it must be addressed systematically.
The first step is to contain the outbreak area, mobilize all resources to eliminate the fish, and restore local aquatic species. This involves cooperation from the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and various agencies working continuously for sustainable solutions. With joint efforts, I believe following the proper steps will sufficiently resolve the problem. It is expected that concrete results will be seen within three months by using the existing 2024 budget framework of 450 million baht to carry out the operations.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister Watcharapol added that from the original 2024 budget allocation of 450 million baht, the Department of Fisheries has spent about 98 million baht, leaving approximately 350 million baht remaining, which will be used to continue addressing the problem. The management will be decisive, orderly, and swift. A preliminary plan has been prepared, and this budget is expected to be sufficient.