BANGKOK: The closure of the Thai-Cambodian border has impacted Cambodia's annual cassava exports worth 9 billion baht, while Thailand's vegetable exports remain insignificant.
Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat said on Thursday (June 19) that the border closure had little impact on Thailand, citing the Office of Agricultural Economics.
This projection was based on Thailand’s limited exports to Cambodia, most of which are non-agricultural goods, she explained.
Narumon noted that the primary impact would be on Cambodia, as Thailand imports approximately 9 billion baht worth of cassava from Cambodia to supply raw materials for its industries.
However, if the situation in Cambodia worsens, Thailand will source cassava from other regions, such as Laos, or substitute with other agricultural products. Discussions with the Commerce Ministry are ongoing.
“I want to reassure the public and farmers that the issue will not significantly affect the agricultural sector. Only some farmers in specific areas may be directly impacted, and I have instructed the relevant agencies to monitor the situation and provide assistance,” she said.
Narumon added that seasonal vegetables and fruits that may be affected by the border closure have been coordinated with modern trade groups to purchase and redistribute them. The Agriculture Ministry has already begun this process, with the Cooperative Promotion Department buying some products itself.
Next week, discussions will be held with the Board of Trade of Thailand and the Federation of Thai Industries to find further ways to assist farmers. The key priority at this moment is national unity, she emphasised.
“Exports through Cambodia mainly involve vegetables worth around 100,000 baht, which is not significant. Going forward, we may need to adjust transport routes and consider shipping by sea, which could increase costs, but we must adapt,” she said.
“As for eastern fruits, the season is nearing its end, so the impact is minimal. Even if the border remains closed for 6 to 12 months, I can assure you there will be no major impact on agriculture,” she added.
Narumon concluded that the Agriculture Ministry is not blocking imports and is not responding to political negotiations, which fall under the responsibility of the Defence Ministry.
However, as agricultural goods are involved in the trade, the Agriculture Ministry has asked the Office of Agricultural Economics to analyse the situation and find ways to mitigate any impact on Thai farmers.
With the analysis showing minimal impact, she hopes all parties can feel reassured. Nonetheless, further discussions with the Commerce Ministry will continue to form a coordinated overall strategy. - The Nation/ANN
