Economy
Thai Shrimp Farmers Voice Concerns Over Proposed Import Deregulation
Thai shrimp farmers are opposing plans to streamline import procedures, citing risks of disease outbreaks and market price instability.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, the Thai Shrimp Farmers Alliance has expressed strong opposition to proposals aimed at reducing import inspection procedures for shrimp. Apichit Worakit, Secretary-General of the alliance, acknowledged the need for processing plants and cold storage facilities to maintain sufficient raw materials for exports. However, he emphasized that any move to expedite imports must not compromise biosecurity.
Farmers are concerned that lax oversight could introduce new or existing shrimp diseases, which would threaten the entire industry and damage the reputation of Thai shrimp in international markets. Furthermore, there is significant anxiety regarding price competition. Currently, shrimp from Ecuador is approximately 70 baht per kilogram cheaper than domestic produce. Farmers fear that an influx of cheaper imports without proper management could depress local prices, exacerbating the financial strain on producers already struggling with high production costs and low yields.
To mitigate these risks, the alliance suggests that if imports are necessary, they should be accompanied by strict measures, such as quotas and price management mechanisms similar to those used for soybeans and corn. For residents and visitors, this situation highlights potential shifts in the local seafood market and ongoing debates regarding food safety standards. It remains to be confirmed whether the government will adopt these proposed safeguards or proceed with the deregulation of import processes.