Sugarcane Farmers Nationwide Still Unpaid 7 Months After Policy
Sugarcane farmers across Thailand have not been paid for fresh cane delivered seven months ago under a government policy to reduce burning. The Loei Highland Sugarcane Farmers Association warns of severe financial distress and debt among growers, urging the prime minister and relevant ministers to release funds before the new crushing season. Farmers demand clear policy on pricing, fuel, and input costs, threatening nationwide mobilization if the government fails to act.
Loei, November 8, 2026 — Sittiboon Ratchatasuwiroj, president of the Loei Highland Sugarcane Farmers Association, revealed that sugarcane farmers across the country are facing extreme hardship. Last year, farmers cooperated with government policy to cut fresh cane instead of burning it. Seven months later, they have received no assistance whatsoever, causing severe difficulties in their livelihoods. Farmers invested heavily last year, but cane prices fell low in the past season. Today, every sugarcane farming household nationwide awaits government help before the new crushing season begins.
They want to send a loud message to the government — Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister Anutin (who holds both posts), along with Industry Minister Warawut Silpa-archa and the new permanent secretary — to push through payment for the fresh cane already delivered, in time before the new season opens. Farmers now lack working capital; some are in debt because they invested in labor costs, tools, and machinery to comply with the state's fresh-cane delivery policy. Seven months on, they have not received a single baht.
If payment isn't made before the season opens, farmers will have to rise up and fight for their rights. They want the state to act on its promises, not just speak and then fail to follow through.
Looking ahead to next year's new crushing season, they ask the government or the Cane and Sugar Board for clear policy direction — which path will be taken, how will farmers be cared for? With cane prices low, fuel expensive, fertilizer and chemicals expensive, the state must issue clear measures so the industry can survive in Thailand. Clear policy must be set. If not, sugarcane farmers nationwide will surely mobilize.
Regarding this year's fresh-cane cutting, farmers are ready to comply and are well aware of environmental concerns. Notably, the Loei Highland Sugarcane Farmers Association network has worked with Mitr Phu Luang Sugar Factory. Last year, we delivered 95% fresh cane to the factory. We have cooperated fully with the state throughout, but we ask that government policy be made clear, said Sittiboon, president of the Loei Highland Sugarcane Farmers Association.
