Ambassadors representing several African nations have voiced apprehension over reports indicating Thailand’s intention to export a contentious ten-year-old rice stockpile to their respective countries.
According to a reliable source within Thailand’s Foreign Ministry, discussions surrounding this matter transpired during a recent meeting between high-ranking Thai officials responsible for South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and African envoys.
“The ministry officials acknowledged the concerns raised and have committed to forwarding them to the appropriate authorities,” stated the source.
Notably, the Nairobi-based Nation news website has disclosed that African diplomats stationed in Bangkok have demanded clarity from local authorities regarding the Thai government’s proposal to dispatch the decade-old rice supply to Africa. This stockpile originates from the fallout of the scandal-ridden rice-pledging scheme initiated during the tenure of the Yingluck government. “This was among the key topics deliberated upon during the interaction between African envoys and Foreign Ministry officials,” affirmed the source.
Quoting African diplomats, The Nation underscored their apprehension over the decision to export the rice to Africa, citing Thailand’s prominent role as a major rice exporter to the region. Notably, countries like Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa are significant importers of Thai rice, procuring large quantities.
For instance, in 2022, Kenya alone purchased approximately US$10.4 million worth of Thai rice, as per figures from the UN Comtrade.
Furthermore, recent online discussions among Nigerian netizens have highlighted concerns regarding the potential health ramifications associated with the rice shipment, particularly if it were to reach African shores. This concern is especially pronounced in Nigeria, where food safety and regulatory standards are perceived to be lax.
