Thai farmers urge PM to enlist Blackpink’s Lisa to promote fruit exports

Lisa’s global fame could open new markets for Thailand’s fruit exports, especially beyond China, they told the PM during her visit to Chanthaburi province on Saturday, as reported by Bangkok Post.

They added that with full government support, Thailand's fruit exports could generate over THB500 billion (US$15 billion) annually, compared to the current THB200–300 billion baht.

Lisa, 28, debuted with Blackpink in 2016 and launched her solo career in 2021 with the album Lalisa.

The Thai national also serves as a global ambassador for luxury brands such as Celine and Bulgari, amassing over 105 million followers on Instagram.

At the meeting with the PM, farmers also pressed for faster customs clearance at border checkpoints, where shipments face delays of up to 12 days.

They requested clearer regulations to curb premature durian harvesting, which impacts both weight and quality, urging the Ministry of Agriculture and provincial authorities to enforce stricter standards.

Labor shortages were another critical issue. The farmers suggested extending work permits for migrant workers and allowing them to relocate between provinces for jobs.

They also proposed a THB100-million compensation fund for durian farmers and residents affected by wild elephant incursions.

In response, Paetongtarn said that the government is collaborating with companies to purchase surplus produce and minimize waste.

She promised to streamline export processes and confirmed that the Ministry of Labour has been directed to address the agricultural sector’s workforce shortages.

As part of her trip, Paetongtarn also visited an exhibition booth operated by the Young Smart Farmer group, where durians were sold through livestreaming.

She also participated in efforts to manage chemical residues in durians and joined a durian-cutting event.