Report Thailand Mobilizes Troops and Prisoners for Fruit Harvest

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Photo courtesy of MGR Online

 

In response to a severe labor shortage and to ensure a successful fruit harvest, Thailand's Department of Internal Trade (DIT) has launched a comprehensive plan to assist farmers across the country. With military personnel and select prisoners stepping in to fill the labor gap, the initiative aims to streamline fruit distribution from both the northern and southern regions of Thailand.

 

The effort, spearheaded by Witthayakorn Maneenet, Director General of the DIT, was highlighted during the launch of the mangosteen harvest assistance project at a 7-Eleven store in Nonthaburi. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to tackle the challenges faced by farmers due to labor shortages exacerbated by ongoing global issues.

 

As the fruit season in Thailand transitions from the east to the north, a new wave of produce—including longans, mangoes, lychees, and pineapples—is set to hit the market. Anticipating a particularly abundant longan harvest, the government has deployed military personnel to assist with harvesting efforts. In a creative twist, the Department of Corrections has authorized the use of "good prisoners" to help gather the crops, effectively reducing costs and easing the burden on farmers.

 

Simultaneously, southern Thailand is preparing to distribute its own bounty of fruits, including durian, mangosteen, rambutan, and longkong. To prevent bottlenecks, the government has coordinated with exporters and collectors, ensuring a seamless transition of operations from the east to the south as the market demands shift.

 

One major component of the plan involves collaboration with CP All Public Company Limited and 7-Eleven. Recognizing distribution challenges caused by border closures with Cambodia, 7-Eleven will begin selling mangosteens at 40 baht per kilogram starting June 28. The initial purchase of 70 tonnes reflects a commitment to help distribute these late-season fruits effectively.

 

Beyond retail partnerships, the government has facilitated the distribution of over 10,000 tons of fruit through a network of 13 fresh markets, and with partners like Thai Air Asia, Makro, Lotus, and the Stock Exchange of Thailand. These collaborations ensure widespread access and support for farmers, safeguarding them against potential revenue losses.

 

In terms of exports, the DIT is exploring new markets, with a focus on India, the Middle East, and China, where Thai longans are gaining popularity. By tapping into these emerging markets, Thailand aims to boost its fruit exports and balance the domestic supply.

 

Collaboration with the Thai Chamber of Commerce bolsters these efforts, fostering confidence in the country's ability to handle and market the fruits efficiently. The government is determined to ensure that all produce from the north and south is managed without issues, supporting farmers in selling their goods and preventing any oversupply risks.

 

This bold and collaborative approach demonstrates the Thai government's commitment to overcoming current challenges and supporting its agricultural sector. By integrating different segments of society—military, corrections, retail, and commerce—Thailand is setting a precedent for innovative solutions to labor shortages and distribution hurdles in agriculture.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-26