BANGKOK, Dec 27 – The Thai Ministry of Commerce’s Foreign Trade Department conceded Thursday that rice exports this year missed the target but expected the volume of rice exports could reach 8-10 million tonnes next year.
Foreign Trade Department director general Surasak Riangkrul said Thailand exported only 6.4 million tonnes of rice this year, below the target of 8-8.5 million tonnes due to the higher price of Thai rice when compared with competing varieties from other countries as well as the decline in their rice imports as a result of natural disasters.
From January through December 16, Thailand exported total 6.4 million tonnes of rice. The country earned some Bt4.2 billion, at an average of Bt657 million a tonne.
Mr Susasak said his department has targeted to export up to 8-10 million tonnes of Thai rice next year.
He said Thailand has attempted to maintain the country’s rice quality and standards, while increasing market share to Africa and other markets. He added that the higher price should not affect the distribution process as the quality of Thai rice is in better grade. Thailand also seeks varied channels to expedite rice sales.
The director general expressed optimism that Thailand would get through the current political turmoil. However, He said rice distribution under the government-to-government contracts is now suspended until the new government is elected.
