May 16, 2007

Thailand's processed pork exports up for Q1

Thai processed pork exports were up 9 months in the first quarter of 2007, the Thai Swine Producers and Processors for Export Association revealed.

Exports to Japan, the top destination, grew 23 percent to 1,644 tonnes. This has offset the reduced exports of frozen pork to Hong Kong, which has stopped sales of frozen pork in fresh pork markets.

Pork exports are expected to rise 8 percent to 12,000 tonnes, compared with 11,000 tonnes last year.

Exporters are hoping to expand their processed pork markets to Singapore, South Korea and Europe.

Exporters hope Thailand's efforts to create a zone free of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) would boost exports.