BANGKOK, 12 October 2013 China will import 1 million tons of Thai rice in the next 5 years, while looking to get hands on Thailand’s 2.2 billion baht infrastructure plan.
Prime Minister of the People’s Republic of China Li Keqiang, during his official trip to the Kingdom of Thailand on October 11-13, rendered his speech upon his arrival at the Government House where he was welcomed by the Thai officials. Prime Minister Li Keqiang said China was adamant in purchasing up to 1 million tons of Thai rice within 5 years’ time, while expressing his willingness to import more Thai para rubber and help Thailand establish its own management mechanism for agricultural products.
He also expressed his desire to take part in Thailand’s high-speed train project as China can help bring in the technology in rail system, which will in turn enhance the life quality of the Thai people.
Chinese Premier went on to say that China will exempt visa for Thai passport holders in a bid to facilitate Thai tourists who want to visit China.
Bilateral trade between Thailand and China this year totaled 70 billion US dollars which increased eight-fold compared to last year’s figure as China is Thailand’s main importer for para rubber.
