Storm Devastates Durian Orchards in Chanthaburi; Damage Assessment and Relief Efforts Underway
A severe storm damaged durian orchards across Chanthaburi province, prompting the Commerce Ministry to launch relief efforts including damage assessments and market support for affected farmers. Harvestable damaged fruit will be processed i
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Suthammaphand has directed provincial commerce officials to survey durian orchards damaged by severe weather in Chanthaburi province and coordinate relief and recovery efforts. The Commerce Ministry expressed concern for affected farmers and ordered Chanthaburi's commerce office to coordinate with provincial authorities for immediate damage assessments, while liaising with the Interior Ministry to expedite relief measures for impacted orchard farmers.
For damaged durians that are harvestable with moisture content exceeding 30%, the Commerce Ministry will facilitate buyer visits to select produce for processing into various products, particularly fried durian, to minimize losses and help farmers generate partial income. Meanwhile, undamaged durians still on trees will receive special attention, with the Internal Trade Department coordinating direct buyer purchases to create market support and ensure continuous sales during the season.
The provincial commerce office is working with relevant agencies to sort damaged durians for appropriate processing based on quality, including incorporation into ice cream and durian flour for bakery and food products to increase value and reduce agricultural losses. Durians unsuitable for sale or processing will be managed appropriately to prevent contamination of marketable fruit, preserving standards and consumer confidence in Thai durian.
"The Commerce Ministry sends encouragement to all durian farmers affected by this incident and commits to accelerating full relief, care, and market support measures to help farmers overcome this situation as quickly as possible," Supachai concluded.
