December 14, 2009

Thailand shrimp farmers demand common shrimp export standards

A representative for shrimp farmers in Thailand has urged the government to enter into negotiations with major world importers to establish a general system of standards for Thai shrimps.

The call came amidst growing concerns that the different criteria used by Thailand's major shrimp export markets are one of the main causes of the rise in production costs for local farmers.

The farmers must observe "Good Agricultural Practices" to ensure their products meet global food safety standards, and other issues such as levels of antibiotic residues must be included in the negotiations, said Somsak Paneetatyasai, president of the Thai Shrimp Association (TSA).

The EU now uses the Global Gap criteria on imported shrimps, while Australia uses its Import Risk Analysis to test shrimp imports. US giant retailer Wal-Mart requires exporters to provide official recognition from its Aquaculture Certification Council before shipping their shrimps to the US market.

Somsak said Thailand will export about 380,000 tonnes of shrimp next year. From January to October 2009, the country has exported 320,000 tonnes of shrimps, up 8% from the same period last year.

The USis currently the largest Thai shrimp buyer, importing 45-49% of all Thailand's total exports each year.

TSA statistics indicate that Thailand is the world's second largest shrimp producer with an annual average production of 540,000 tonnes, after China with 560,000 tonnes.

Vietnam is the world's third largest shrimp producer at 220,000 tonnes. Indonesia and India ranked fourth and fifth respectively.