SAMUT SAKHON – Sirisaeng Arumpee Co., Ltd., a fishmeal producer in Samut Sakhon, is purchasing Blackchin tilapia daily as part of efforts to help control the invasive species while creating additional income opportunities for farmers and fishers.
The initiative gained momentum after the Department of Fisheries simplified purchasing procedures, allowing farmers and fishers to sell their catch directly to the factory by presenting only a national identification card. The previous requirement to obtain certification documents from local authorities has been removed.
Preecha Sirisaengarumpee, owner of the company, said the factory has been purchasing Blackchin tilapia at 10 baht per kilogram since May 26, 2026.
Following the procedural adjustment, farmers and fishers from Samut Sakhon, Samut Prakan, Samut Songkhram, Bangkok and Phetchaburi have been bringing their catches to the facility on a daily basis.
“The response has been very positive because farmers can now sell their catch directly without going through intermediaries, enabling them to earn more income while helping reduce Blackchin tilapia populations in natural waterways and aquaculture ponds,” Mr Preecha said.
He added that the factory remains open to purchases from all provinces. Interested sellers can contact the plant for further information at 089-203-1388.
The fish are processed into fishmeal for use in the animal feed industry, providing a practical utilization pathway for fish removed from affected water bodies.
Under guidelines established by the Samut Sakhon Provincial Fisheries Office, farmers who sell directly to the factory receive 10 baht per kilogram. Those selling through collection points receive 8 baht per kilogram, while collectors receive a 2-baht handling fee.
The revised process also reduces administrative burdens on farmers. The factory is responsible for reporting daily purchase volumes to provincial authorities, while sellers are required only to present their identification card at the purchasing point.
Authorities have urged farmers and transport operators to ensure fish are securely contained during transportation to prevent accidental releases into new areas.
The collaboration between the fishmeal industry and the Department of Fisheries is seen as an important mechanism for reducing Blackchin tilapia populations while creating economic incentives for communities and fishers to participate in management efforts.
The approach, often described as “Catch, Utilize and Reduce,” is gaining attention as a practical strategy for controlling the spread of Blackchin tilapia while generating value from fish removed from affected ecosystems.
