Thailand's Ministry of Commerce is currently addressing the dual challenges of air quality and agricultural imports through regulatory measures targeting the corn import market. The newly proposed regulations aim to mitigate the PM 2.5 dust crisis—an issue increasingly recognized as having significant health impacts on the population.
On February 5, 2023, the Ministry convened discussions with representatives from three major corn-exporting nations. This initiative is part of Thailand's broader strategy to manage its environmental issues, particularly those associated with agricultural practices like burning, which contribute to air pollution.
Arda Fueangthong, the Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, explained, "The import measures will be applied to agricultural products from all countries, but we are starting with corn used for animal feed to align with World Trade Organization principles." This is largely due to the country's dependence on corn imports to meet its domestic needs.
Thailand currently produces about 4 to 5 million tons of corn annually but requires approximately 9 million tons, indicating the necessity for imports of around 4 to 5 million tons each year. The main sources for these imports are neighboring countries, including Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. For example, last year's import statistics showed Myanmar accounting for 87% of corn imports.
The focus of these new import regulations revolves around ensuring the corn is sourced from areas free from burning practices. Documentation requirements will include certificates from competent authorities confirming this condition, as well as mapping details of farming locations. This stringent sourcing criterion stresses Thailand's commitment to improving overall air quality for its citizens.
During the discussions, there was acknowledgment from attendees about the pressing need for countries within the ASEAN bloc to collaborate effectively on environmental concerns. Each representative recognized the PM 2.5 issue transcends borders and likely requires joint action to address its roots effectively.
Arda emphasized, "We must balance protective health measures with the needs of all stakeholders along the corn supply chain." This balancing act mirrors the larger challenge Thailand faces: promoting environmental health without sacrificing agricultural productivity. The potential for technology adoption to facilitate sustainable practices was also discussed, signaling future innovation roles.
Experts have noted the importance of corn as a key ingredient in animal feed, especially for poultry production, which is significant for both domestic consumption and Thai exports. Temple poultry is particularly reliant on corn as it contributes to both the quality and quantity of chicken production.
Looking beyond immediate measures, there is potential for Thailand to lead initiatives within ASEAN focused on sustainable agricultural practices. The commitment to ensuring all imported corn enhances air quality could serve as a model illustrating how trade policies can align with public health goals.
Thailand's proactive stance, working collaboratively with importing nations, may set the foundation for similar agreements across other agricultural products vulnerable to pollution-related practices. Such moves signify not just trade-based cooperation but also a commitment to addressing the pressing environmental hurdles faced by Southeast Asia.
With discussions still underway, stakeholders are encouraged to prepare for implementation timelines, ensuring they can adjust to the new regulations without disruption. All parties involved, from farmers to exporters, are called upon to participate actively, ensuring their practices adapt to these environmentally-focused measures.
The framework being put forth aims to reinforce healthy air quality as intrinsic to agricultural health, thereby promoting wider ecological stability. It marks Thailand's continuous efforts to develop regulations sensitive to both economic and environmental realities, representing what could be the beginning of transformative approaches to tackling air quality issues through trade.