Suriya confirms the budget request to purchase electric rice harvesters at 16 million baht each may seem expensive at first glance but is cost-effective over the long term. He points out that when he served as Minister of Transport, converting BMTA buses to electric also doubled costs, and he is prepared to clarify all questions.
At 10:20 a.m. on 14 Oct 2026 GMT+7 at the Government House, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, addressed criticism regarding the ministry's plan to request an 8 billion baht budget from a loan decree to procure 500 electric rice harvesters. He explained the aim is to help reduce rice harvesting costs. He affirmed that farmers currently suffer from plowing with diesel tractors, and after consideration by the Rice Department, introducing electric tractors, though seemingly pricier on the surface than diesel ones, will overall save over 10 billion baht across 14 years of use without fuel costs. He confirmed all details have been compared to show the benefits clearly.
When asked about concerns that the market price for an EV tractor is only 1.6 million baht, but the project cites 16 million baht, Suriya said that during his time as Minister of Transport, switching BMTA buses from diesel to electric also cost twice as much, but ultimately proved beneficial.
Asked whether the investment is worthwhile in the long term, Suriya affirmed it is, especially in addressing global warming and reducing carbon credits. He said this project is beneficial, as rice harvested by electric vehicles meets foreign regulations requiring environmental benefits, which will help Thai rice fetch better prices.
Suriya said the project submission to the Ministry of Finance’s screening committee is expected to take two weeks. He believes many misunderstand the issue due to lack of explanation, but they have prepared comparison tables and are ready to clarify.
Flood Relief Measures for Affected Farmers Expected to Reach Cabinet in Two Weeks
Suriya also spoke about relief for farmers affected by flooding, saying the event impacted many farmers. He ordered the Permanent Secretary of Agriculture and Cooperatives to collect data from all departments to find ways to provide assistance. Existing criteria are in place, but he has ordered additional measures. The Prime Minister is concerned and has instructed thorough collection of data on affected farmers and citizens.
When asked about the timing for Cabinet submission, Suriya said it is expected within two weeks as data collection is currently being finalized.