WITH an increase in the use of palm oil for production of B7 and B20 biodiesel the Commerce Ministry this morning (April 20) said the entire system is being balanced to ensure sufficient supply for domestic use while simultaneously maintaining price stability for the benefit of farmers, PPTVHD36 and Thai Rath newspaper said.
Mr. Witiyakorn Maneenet, director-general of the Internal Trade Department, said the palm oil subcommittee is meeting tomorrow to work out B7 and B20 energy plans and palm oil export framework, after having set maximum export volume of 200,000 tons of the product for this month.
Domestic consumption for this month was set at 125,000 tons while approximately 120,000-140,000 tons is being channeled for energy use (B7 and B20), compared to the usual 70,000 tons. This aligns with seasonal production level with the department closely monitoring the situation to prevent shortages or impacts on domestic prices.
In April, exporters applied for permission to export approximately 102,000 tons of palm oil with the department having approved all the applications because the total quantity is within the defined framework, with it being possible to grant further permits. The department is also overseeing alignment with domestic stock levels and demand.
Even though the global price of crude palm oil (CPO) is trending downwards, the department continues to maintain domestic price at approximately 40 baht per kilogramme, ensuring farmers get a fair price for their produce, especially during peak production periods, Witiyakorn said.
As of April 16, 2026, the price of oil palm fruit was 6.80 — 7.50 baht per kg, averaging 7.15 baht, up from average 5.70 baht last year, or approximately 25%. Meanwhile, the price of crude palm oil was 40.00 — 40.25 baht per kg, averaging 40.13 baht, up from average 33.75 baht last year, or about 19%, resulting from increased absorption by the energy sector.
At the same time, the department has ordered strict supervision of palm fruit purchase, both at extraction plants and collection centres, emphasising fairness to farmers, including clearly displaying purchase prices, verifying the accuracy of weighing scales to prevent exploitation.
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Top and Front Page: Oil palm fruit. Photos – PPTVHD36
Insert: Mr. Witiyakorn Maneenet, director-general of the Internal Trade Department. Photo – PPTVHD36
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