Pork producers in Thailand are requesting the government to import pork in order to assist manage rising prices, which are affecting both consumers and vendors.
Pork vendors at Huai Khwang market expressed concern that if the government does not intervene, the average price of market pork could reach 300 baht per kilogram. As a result of rising prices, regular customers are ordering less pork from vendors. One merchant suggested that the government begin importing pigs to help alleviate the problem, while a local client stated she had to cut back on her purchases owing to rising pricing.
A survey has been undertaken, according to Wattanasak Sur-iam, director-general of the Internal Trade Department, to assess the quantity of live pigs and frozen stocks in the country. Teams will also be despatched to assess pork stocks and offer information that will aid officials in deciding what to do next.
Live pig exports have been halted until April 5, and pig farmers, distributors, and food freezing facility operators must now report their stock on a weekly basis.
Meanwhile, government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana has refuted reports that the Kingdom is experiencing an outbreak of African swine fever (ASF). He went on to say that Thai authorities must disclose any ASF instances to the Globe Organisation for Animal Health, and that such an outbreak would never be hidden from the rest of the world. Nonetheless, he stated that the Department of Livestock Development is closely monitoring any suspected cases and is developing measures to keep the disease out of the country.
Source: NNT – National News Bureau of Thailand.