The Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Commerce Office convened a marketing task force meeting on March 13 to discuss solutions for fluctuating pineapple prices between farmers and processing factories.
The meeting, chaired by Sirivan Konasorn, the provincial commerce officer, took place at the office’s conference room in Mueang district. Attendees included government officials, agricultural representatives, and pineapple industry stakeholders. The session began with an update on the provincial agricultural development committee’s directives, which cover production, processing, marketing, and management strategies.
According to data presented at the meeting, as of March 12, 2025, the purchase price of large pineapples for processing plants ranged between 13.80 to 14.30 baht per kilogram, a relatively high rate compared to the past decade. However, farmers raised concerns about the rapid decline in prices. To address this, attendees agreed on setting a minimum price that reflects production costs and market conditions. Factories were also urged to implement gradual price adjustments instead of abrupt reductions. Future discussions will focus on contract agreements between farmers and processors to ensure price stability.
Another key issue raised was production shortfalls at processing plants, which have struggled to meet output targets due to insufficient raw materials. Additionally, the meeting reviewed the challenges surrounding the geographical indication (GI) registration of Prachuap’s “Siam Gold” pineapple variety. The registration process is currently stalled because the name is not widely recognized, with most people still referring to the variety as MD2. To address this, the meeting resolved to promote the fruit under the name “Siam Gold Prachuap Khiri Khan (MD2)” to increase awareness and facilitate GI registration. The initiative aims to enhance the product’s value and reputation, benefiting local farmers and the province’s economy.
