Agriculture Ministry aims to export 1 million tonnes more of rice to China
Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Chalermchai Sri-on said on Monday (November 25) that his ministry had submitted a second list of rice manufacturers to China and that its government promised it would finish the registration process under its import scheme as soon as possible.
His statement came after he met with Zhang Jiwen, Deputy Minister of the General Administration of Customs, China (GACC).
“Rice exported from Thailand has gained huge popularity in China,” Chalermchai said. “We had previously submitted the first batch of rice manufacturers’ names for the GACC’s consideration based on product quality and their safety standard, and 49 exporters were given approval, comprising both large manufacturers and SMEs.”
Chalermchai said China’s willingness to consider a second batch is a positive sign, which could pave the way for additional exports of 1 million tonnes of rice to China estimated at Bt27 billion.
The agriculture minister also said he and Zhang discussed opportunities to export more agricultural products from Thailand to China, including processed tapioca and fruits, frozen pork, live cattle, and bird nests.
“We also discussed the possibility to export fruits via the newly opened Dongxing border checkpoint, which Thai exporters can use to conveniently transport their products by land. The checkpoint is located only 150 metres away from the Mong Cai agricultural market,” said Chalermchai.
“GACC officials have acknowledged our offers and promised to work out agreements that favour both countries as soon as possible,” he added.