Bangkok: The Commerce Ministry is ramping up its efforts to tackle the issue of adulterated coconut water, coordinating with the Ministry of Interior to scrutinize the production processes in four provinces. This move comes after observing suspiciously low prices of some coconut water products in the market.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, Director-General of the Department of Business Development, recently led a delegation to visit General Beverage Co., Ltd. in Nakhon Pathom Province. The visit aimed to understand the challenges facing the coconut water industry and discuss potential solutions with industry leaders. The ministry's focus on the matter stems from concerns raised by the Senate's Commerce and Industry Committee, as well as complaints from entrepreneurs and farmers about possible adulteration impacting coconut prices and consumer confidence.
Mr. Poonpong explained that to tackle these issues, the Ministry of Commerce is working with the Ministry of Interior, which has tasked governors in Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, and Ratchaburi provinces to assess the congruity between the coconuts used and the coconut water produced. Any inconsistencies will prompt a comprehensive investigation into the source of raw materials and production processes, with legal action to follow if any wrongdoing is uncovered. The goal is to ensure traceability in the production chain and protect both consumers and honest manufacturers.
The investigation's initial step involves checking the balance between the raw materials and the finished products. Mr. Poonpong noted that the farm-gate price of fragrant coconuts in Ratchaburi is around 9-9.50 baht per fruit, with approximately four coconuts needed to produce one liter of water. Before adding other costs, this already sets a high baseline price for genuine coconut water, raising questions about products sold at much lower prices.
Furthermore, the government seeks to ensure accurate labeling on coconut water products. Labels claiming "100% coconut water" or "100% fragrant coconut water" must reflect true content to safeguard consumers and maintain fair competition. The ministry's approach includes regulating raw material sources, certifying processing facilities, developing scientific testing criteria, and enforcing clear labeling standards.
Ms. Sukanda Rattanagosum, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of General Beverage Co., Ltd., stated that their facility produces over a million beverage bottles per day, using about 200,000 liters of coconut water daily. They employ quality control systems and sophisticated equipment to verify product authenticity. She cited multiple factors affecting coconut prices, including market demand fluctuations and geopolitical tensions, suggesting government oversight throughout the supply chain to stabilize the industry.
Mr. Poonpong concluded that the Ministry of Commerce will establish a specialized team to address coconut-related issues, assigning provincial commerce offices to closely monitor the situation and collaborate with relevant agencies. This comprehensive approach aims to prevent adulteration, ensure fair trade, and bolster the reputation of Thai coconut water in global markets.