A rotten version of 'sight unseen'
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PM Yingluck would rightly get mad if her cook went to the market and bought produce without inspecting it. So I share the concern of Thai Rice Exporters' Association honorary president Vichai Sriprasert over the quality of the rice the government is auct
Openness is key here, because rice deteriorates with age, and the government’s own inquiry, led by Finance Deputy Permanent Secretary Supa Piyajitti, found many gaping holes for corruption in the purchasing and storage. Consumer groups have raised many questions about the safety, hygiene and freshness of the rice.
Yingluck is acting like someone with everything to hide, and that will cause buyers to bid low. Not only that, as Shakespeare said, “The truth will out” - if not before the bidding, then shortly after delivery. Yingluck should allow bidders to inspect and test each lot before auction so they can pay market value for verified quality and protect the reputation of Thai rice. Being blindfolded is a game that doesn't belong in an auction.
Burin Kantabutra
Bangkok
