Bangkok: The National Swine Raisers Association has urged the government to refrain from importing pork and related products from the United States in exchange for trade privileges for Thai industrial exports. The association warns that such a move could devastate the Thai agricultural sector, particularly the pork production industry.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sittipan Thanakiatphinyo, President of the National Swine Raisers Association, expressed concerns that allowing inexpensive US pork into the domestic market would be detrimental to over a hundred thousand Thai pig farmers, effectively ending their livelihoods overnight. The impact would not be limited to pig farmers; it would have a cascading effect on corn and soybean farmers, animal feed producers, processing plants, and millions of workers involved in the industry.
Mr. Sittipan criticized the potential trade-off, arguing that while the government might secure more rights to export industrial products, it would simultaneously undermine the domestic pig farming industry, which plays a crucial role in supporting the country's economy. He questioned the worthiness of a trade-off that could result in the collapse of the Thai economy while benefitting the US economy.
Emphasizing the importance of agricultural products, particularly pork, Mr. Sittipan stated that they should not be used as leverage in international trade negotiations due to their low profit margins and high costs. He pointed out that Thailand, unlike heavily subsidized countries like the United States, could not compete fairly. Additionally, opening the market to US pork could introduce animal diseases such as swine flu, posing a significant risk to Thailand's livestock system.
Mr. Sittipan also highlighted the dangers of importing meat from countries that permit the use of prohibited substances and antibiotics in animal husbandry, such as Ractopamine. He warned that these substances, even when used in safe amounts, could cause health issues if consumed in large quantities.
The Swine Raisers Association of Thailand called on the government to reconsider its negotiation stance with the United States and focus on other industrial products that can compete effectively. The aim is to preserve the stability of the grassroots economy, ensure food security, and promote safe food consumption for the Thai population.
Mr. Sittipan concluded by urging the government not to sacrifice the future of Thai pig farmers for short-term export gains, emphasizing the long-term importance of maintaining food security in Thailand.