China to Sign Major Rice Import Deal with Thailand
Thailand is set to sign a major 500,000-tonne rice export agreement with China during Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s upcoming visit for the Mekong-Lancang summit in mid-December.
Key Developments
- Chinese Premier Li Qiang to visit Bangkok for Mekong-Lancang summit in mid-December
- 500,000-tonne Thai rice export agreement expected to be signed
- Deal follows President Xi Jinping’s expressed intention to purchase Thai rice
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has directed the Ministry of Commerce to accelerate preparations for delivering the massive rice shipment as soon as possible, according to government spokesman Siripong Angkasakulkiat.
“The signing of the rice export agreement is expected around mid-December,” he said. “The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has also been asked to ensure sufficient stocks of high-quality rice are prepared for export.”
Royal Visit Strengthens Bilateral Ties
The announcement comes shortly after the historic state visit of Their Majesties the King and Queen to China, which coincided with celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Prime Minister Anutin, who attended the visit, emphasized how the trip has strengthened already close bilateral ties. He has urged all ministries to prioritize implementing signed cooperation frameworks with China to ensure steady progress in bilateral cooperation.
Enhanced Trade Cooperation
The government is focusing on three key areas to boost economic ties:
- Facilitating greater trade flows between Thailand and China
- Improving standards for export inspection and logistics
- Attracting more trade and investment
The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has been instructed to enhance inspection, quarantine, and certification procedures for consumer products. The Prime Minister also expressed commitment to improving Thailand’s safety reputation for exports.
