PUBLISHED: 31 Jan 2025 at 06:34
The Department of Foreign Trade (DFT) is set to propose crucial cross-border PM2.5 pollution prevention measures to the Maize Policy and Management Committee.
This proposal includes a ministry announcement mandating that corn importers provide documentation, such as an exporter certificate from an authorized body, to confirm that imported corn originates from non-burning cultivation areas. These certificates will feature traceable systems and maps identifying the cultivation locations.
Non-compliance with these regulations could result in strict import restrictions, as warned by the DFT.
During a meeting focused on combatting cross-border PM2.5 pollution, DFT Director-General highlighted the importance of these measures in preventing the import of corn from burned fields, a significant contributor to air quality issues.
The DFT will further engage with relevant agencies to finalize the proposal before advancing it to the Maize Policy and Management Committee.
These regulations will be applicable to all countries, ensuring alignment with World Trade Organization principles and ASEAN obligations, while striving to alleviate unnecessary burdens on businesses.
Private sector participants, including representatives from agricultural investment firms and the Thai Feed Mill Association, voiced strong support for sourcing corn exclusively from non-burning sources to tackle the pressing national pollution crisis.
Additionally, the DFT plans to partner with the Foreign Affairs Ministry to brief neighboring countries on these forthcoming regulations and to facilitate the creation of a competent authority for certificate issuance, thus curbing illegal imports.
Before the formal announcement, the DFT intends to collaborate with trade officials in Myanmar to create a list of corn exporters who adhere to non-burning practices, promoting sustainable agriculture in the region.
Thailand’s corn imports historically range from 1.3 to 1.8 million tonnes annually, primarily sourced from Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. However, imports surged to 2 million tonnes in 2024, with 1.7 million tonnes, or 70%, sourced from Myanmar alone, alongside 250,000 tonnes from Laos and 7,000 tonnes from Cambodia.
Currently, Thailand hosts 82 corn importers and over 100 corn exporters from its neighboring countries.
