The largest market for fresh fruit and vegetables in the North is scheduled to open in Chiang Rai next year. The market, Talat Lan Muang, is also expected to become a centre for the trading of fresh goods with Myanmar and Laos, thanks to the location of Chiang Rai.
Chiang Rai’s deputy governor Samrit Sawamipak said the market would help local farmers become more competitive and maintain the prices of locally grown fruit and vegetables.
Organic fruit
Samrit also believes Chiang Rai will become known regionally as a centre of organic produce.
The construction of the market on a 160rai piece of land at Mae Korn intersection will cost about Bt2 billion. Those interested in reserving space in the market can do so on September 29.
“Besides Chiang Rai’s location – adjacent to Myanmar and Laos, as well as a link to China – has the potential for a wholesale market. We have invited Sri Muang, a local market operator, to join the project,” Wisarn added.
Apart from organic products, Talat Lan Muang will also stock locally made goods in the hope of attracting tourists.
Napintorn Srisanpang, president of the Ratchaburi Central Vegetable and Fruit Market, said there is over 2million rai (320,000 hectares) of farmland in Chiang Rai, and given its proximity to Laos and Myanmar, the province could very well become a wholesale export centre for fresh fruit and vegetables.
Up to 10,000 tonnes of vegetables and fruit will be delivered and distributed via the centre daily.
