In the governmental press release from January 5, 2015, Patisae revealed the progress of measures to help rubber farmers, stating that the government is readying its plans to assist farmers, especially the urgent issue of establishing a balanced rubber price. He said that the price of rubber has fallen to 43.50 baht per kilogram (about 1,32 US-$ per kilogram). However, the current price for smoked rubber sheet is now at 60.75 baht per kilogram (about 1,84 US-$ per kilogram). Many related sectors‘ research shows that the situation has passed the most critical point and is entering the constant recovery phase, which will depend on the global economy, automobile industry, and the oil price, all of which affect the rubber price, said the Deputy Minister.
He further said that the government will continue to encourage domestic rubber consumption and market management based on economic mechanisms, while compensation and pricing control measures from the government will help farmers cope with costs during these difficult times. The payment of compensation to rubber farmers is expected to be finished by October, said the Deputy Minister.
The Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives added that in January, there will be a meeting to discuss overall rubber control measures, which will include issues of rubber harvesters or farmers who farms on lands with no title deeds.
(dw)
