Thailand on track to be world’s second-largest rice exporter

BANGKOK – Thailand is on track to become world’s second-largest rice exporter, aiming to surpass 8 million tonnes in exports this year. 

Deputy secretary-general to the prime minister and acting government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri said in the first four months of 2023, Thai rice export rose to 2.62 million tonnes, an increase of 14.4% year-on-year. 

To increase rice exports, he said public and private sectors are working closely to develop new rice varieties to increase Thai rice diversity. 

“A total of 21 rice varieties have been developed within the first three years of the implementation, exceeding the original goal, which is to obtain 12 new varieties within five years,” he said in a statement. 

Besides that, Anucha said the government has taken proactive measures by intensifying the promotion of trade exhibitions and engaging in negotiations with trade partners to explore new markets. 

“The government has prioritized strengthening its relations with key trade partners, including Iraq, Indonesia, South Africa, the United States, and China, in order to expand into new markets. 

“Trade representatives also met with trade counterparts in Hong Kong, China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, and South Africa to further strengthen relations and cooperation,” he said. 

Anucha said the government also supported rice exporters to participate in international exhibitions including China–Asean Expo (China), Fine Food (Australia), Anuga (Germany) and domestically-held ThaiFex–Anuga Asia 2023 to increase Thai rice opportunities in the global market.    

“A promotional campaign has been undertaken to create awareness of the positive image and uniqueness of Thai rice,” he said.

With the cooperation and integrative effort of all concerned sectors, Anucha said Prayuth is confident that Thai rice export in 2023 will reach the set target of over 8 million tonnes. 

“Quality of life of the Thai farmers is also expected to be elevated with an increase in earnings from rice export,” he said. – Bernama, June 30, 2023