Suriya awaits results of the Kaew Juree basil inspection from the Department of Agriculture next Monday, affirming his commitment to protect Thai farmers nationwide.
On 26 October at the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, revealed progress in the investigation regarding CP RAM Company Limited's registration of the new basil variety "Kaew Juree 01–04." He assigned the Department of Agriculture to verify the registration details from 2024 and address related concerns, with a report due within one week, by Monday, 2 November 2026.
Mr. Suriya stated that as Minister, he affirms the Ministry's primary commitment to protecting Thai farmers, with the government prioritizing this matter. The guiding principle has always been that farmers must be legally protected, as basil leaves represent a way of life and livelihood for the Thai people and farmers. He pledged to take all possible measures to ensure no adverse effects occur to farmers.
Reporters noted that the Department of Agriculture is preparing an online program titled "Discussing Basil with the Department of Agriculture" on 27 October 2026 at 1:00 p.m. to address hot topics circulating online. Ms. Sasina Pantan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Agriculture, along with a team of experts, will provide knowledge and answer all questions regarding basil varieties, cultivation and care, new plant variety registration, utilization and marketing, as well as opportunities for farmers. Viewers will have the chance to submit questions live via the Department's official Facebook page.
