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Published on April 3, 2008

They will start selling the cheaper product on April 18.

The amount is equal to 33 per cent of total estimated demand this month. Consumption is expected to reach 4 million-4.5 million tonnes this year.

The manufacturers will shoulder a combined loss of Bt70 million.

Commerce Minister Mingkwan Sangsuwan said government agencies together with farmers and fertiliser manufacturers would jointly find a formula for a fair price for all.

Thai Fertiliser and Agricultural Marketing Association president Plengsakdi Prakaspesat ruled out speculation as the reason for prices rising. He said 98 per cent of the product was from imported materials, which have become more expensive.

"The price of imported [materials] has jumped 200 per cent since last year. Fertiliser producers have to live with a very low margin," he said.

Manufacturers are willing to assist if they get equitable treatment. However, transport from factory to farm is a major factor, accounting for 20 per cent of production costs.

Petchanet Pratruangkrai

The Nation