Bring back the previous rice scheme
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By selling rice to international traders and other entities directly, the government is encouraging them to compete with our own exporters. But why would international buyers pay more for Thai rice than rice from India, Vietnam or Pakistan?
It is high time the government accepted that its rice scheme is a complete disaster. The previous rice insurance-mortgage scheme was much better because it involved no government interference in the purchase, stocking and marketing and required less money to support farmers.
In 2011 Thailand exported 10.5 million tonnes, in 2012 6.9 million, and in 2013 I expect exports to be around 5.5 million. Thailand has lost huge revenue and market share in most countries and will continue to do so if the government does not wake up and bring back the old policy.
Rakesh Sodhia
Bangkok
