BANGKOK, 22 April 2015 – The Ministry of Commerce has assigned commercial attaches worldwide to make urgent clarifications regarding Thailand’s ongoing efforts to solve problems in its fishing sector.
Deputy Commerce Minister Apiradee Tantraporn disclosed that an order has been issued for the Department of International Trade Promotion to have commercial envoys stationed in Thailand’s trade partner countries promptly create an understanding with local trade authorities concerning issues surrounding Thai fishery.
The deputy minister said the envoys are to emphasize Thailand’s commitment and relentless efforts to tackle various problems in the fishing industry. She also hopes importers of Thai products will be convinced that the issue has received the greatest attention from the Thai government and their perception of Thai goods will not be tarnished.
Such clarifications are deemed necessary after the European Union recently issued a yellow card to Thailand for its non-compliance with the Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing Regulation. The yellow card is considered the EU’s warning for Thailand to improve its fishing standard and fix all pressing problems by formulating a concrete action plan against IUU fishing.
Ms Apiradee voiced belief that all problems will be addressed in a matter of six months. In the meantime, she said the Commerce Ministry has prepared alternative markets, such as Eastern Europe and the CLMV group, to accommodate Thai fishery products in place of the EU market.
