Mango prices at Huai Khwang Market have dropped to a low of 20 baht per kilogram (approximately $0.55), an unusually low rate not seen in recent memory, says vendor Pikul. She shares, "I've never seen prices so low. This situation is really hurting farmers. Mango growers are in trouble—I feel for them."
The supply chain from Simummuang wholesale market remains steady with fresh daily shipments, yet overripe mangoes are often heavily discounted or discarded by evening. Tú, another vendor aged 26, reports, "They complain there's just too much fruit—way more than usual," indicating a surplus that's impacting wholesalers.
According to the Department of Internal Trade, farmgate prices for major fruit crops have dropped by 25%, marking the largest decline in a decade. Export disruptions tied to tariff concerns have caused fruit pulp factories to halt operations, further weakening local demand.
On May 7, the Ministry of Commerce initiated emergency measures to reduce the oversupply. These include direct purchases from farmers by government agencies and large-scale buying for schools and social programs to stabilize prices. Efforts to support logistics include toll exemptions for fruit trucks, dedicated cargo lanes, and subsidies for refrigerated containers.
Commerce officials also launched transport upgrades. However, despite these actions, vendors at Huai Khwang Market say conditions remain unchanged. Pikul remarks, "I haven't seen the government do anything—I don't even watch the news. There's been no help at all; we haven't even received the 10,000-baht subsidy (around $275)."
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's video plea encouraging mango consumption has yet to impact market dynamics. While she noted a yield boost from favorable growing conditions, market activity remains sluggish. Ekkarapee, another vendor, adds, "It's completely quiet, no one is buying," reflecting the deep stress felt among vendors and growers.
As the harvest peak nears, the urgent need is clear: more consumers purchasing mangoes at prices that at least cover farmers' costs. Existing interventions appear inadequate, with worsening economic conditions adding further pressure to the market.
Source: Bangkok Post