September 18, 2006

Thailand's pork exports expected to increase 30 percent this year

Thai pork exports are on the rise as new markets and greater volumes boosted growth in the commodity.

Thailand is likely to export 15,000 tonnes worth Bt2.56 billion (US$68.6 million) this year, the Livestock Development Department said last week.

Wimolporn Thitisak, director of standardisation at the Animal Products and Inspection Services Bureau, said the major export markets for Thai pork were Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong for products like processed pork, frozen pork and chilled pork.

Japan imports mostly processed pork products while Hong Kong imports both frozen and chilled pork and processed pork.

Exports reached Bt1.49 billion (US$39.9 million) and 11,581 tonnes last year.

During the first eight months of the year, export value reached Bt1.13 billion (US$30.3 million) or 7,820 tonnes. Greater consumption during the last four months of the year may result in exports reaching the 15,000-tonne target.

Thailand's per capita pork consumption is expected increase from 11.73 kilogrammes last year to 12.29 kilogrammes this year, with total consumption reaching 772,280 tonnes, Wimolporn said.