VOICED : Thai rubber farmers wheeze as prices slump

In Thailand, rubber farmers like Jade face financial difficulties due to low rubber prices, which have dropped significantly since 2011. The labor-intensive industry is struggling, and many farmers are in debt, unable to sustain their families. The farmers demand government intervention for a guaranteed minimum price, having previously protested against the government. The military government, under pressure, considers cash handouts similar to those given to rice farmers. With the economy stagnating and martial law in place, farmers are contemplating alternative livelihoods if prices don't improve. Jade hopes his children won't have to follow in his footsteps.

What is one of the main challenges faced by rubber farmers in Thailand?

• Lack of rubber trees

• Excessive rainfall

• Low rubber prices

• High labor costs

Why are rubber farmers demanding government intervention?

• To improve weather conditions

• To increase the number of rubber trees

• To reduce labor costs

• To establish a guaranteed minimum price

What was one of the actions taken by rubber farmers earlier this year?

• They increased rubber production

• They protested against the government

• They reduced rubber prices

• They formed a new political party

What is the government's approach to dealing with the economic issues faced by rubber farmers?

• Implementing new taxes

• Providing cash handouts

• Increasing rubber exports

• Reducing rubber production

What is a concern for the future of rubber farmers if prices do not rise?

• They will move to urban areas

• They will increase rubber production

• They will need to find alternative livelihoods

• They will have to import rubber