Bangkok: The Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) has launched a scathing critique of the current government’s handling of the plummeting rice prices, accusing it of lacking the necessary intelligence and measures to support struggling farmers. PPRP spokesman, Pol. Lt. Gen. Piya Tawichai, highlighted the government’s failure to address the crisis effectively and mocked its suggestion for farmers to switch from rice to banana cultivation, claiming it reflects a lack of understanding of the agricultural sector.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Piya criticized the government’s approach, which he argued is not only ineffective but also demonstrates a superficial grasp of the challenges faced by farmers. He noted that the influx of dry season rice into the market, coupled with Thailand’s position in the global market, has led to a significant drop in rice prices. Instead of addressing the root causes, the government has advised farmers to grow bananas, showcasing what he described as a lack of vision and problem-solving capability. He suggested that if the government struggles to find solutions, it should consider adopting the PPRP’s past policies that proved successful in tackling low rice prices.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Piya further elaborated on the inadequacy of the government’s financial assistance plan, which offers farmers 1,000 baht per rai for up to 10 rai, totaling no more than 10,000 baht per farmer. He contrasted this with the previous PPRP-led administration’s support, which provided the same rate but covered up to 20 rai, offering a maximum of 20,000 baht, thereby better alleviating the farmers’ hardships.
Highlighting the impracticality of the government’s suggestion for farmers to switch crops, Pol. Lt. Gen. Piya emphasized the significant challenges and costs associated with converting rice fields to banana plantations, including soil adjustments, canal digging, and finding suitable banana varieties. He pointed out the complexities involved, such as different markets and the long gestation period for banana growth, questioning what farmers would subsist on during the interim.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Piya advocated for a comprehensive strategy encompassing short, medium, and long-term plans to address the rice price issue. These include developing high-yield rice varieties, employing modern technology to cut costs, promoting high-quality rice popular in international markets, and enhancing global competitiveness through governmental support.
Concluding his remarks, Pol. Lt. Gen. Piya criticized the government’s currency management, asserting that the appreciation of the baht has adversely impacted the income of farmers and exporters. He questioned the government’s understanding of currency valuation and suggested that if it cannot effectively manage the country’s affairs, it might be prudent to allow other political parties to take the reins.