October 2, 2024

 

Thailand considers temporary ban on live swine exports to curb soaring pork prices

Thailand's Ministry of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives is set to consult the Ministry of Commerce over a temporary ban on live swine exports, which aims to alleviate the skyrocketing pork prices affecting both vendors and consumers, Thai PBS World reported.

 

Deputy Agriculture Minister Prapat Pothasuthon convened an urgent meeting with representatives from the Livestock Development Department, the Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), and other relevant agencies. The meeting was called to address the escalating pork prices, which have surged to over THB 200 (US$6.14) per kg.

 

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Prapat attributed the price surge to a decline in the number of swine, particularly breeding stocks, caused by African swine fever (ASF). The disease has led swine farmers and livestock officials to cull large numbers of animals to prevent its spread.

 

The rising costs of animal feed and medication for sick swine have further worsened the shortage of live swine, pushing pork prices even higher. Prapat warned that prices could reach THB 300 (US$9.21) per kg ahead of Chinese New Year next month.

 

Although ASF has been kept under control, many breeding swine have died, Prapat noted. He also highlighted the increased demand for Thai swine in neighbouring countries, which has added further pressure on domestic supply.

 

As the official responsible for the Livestock Development Department, Prapat said he will consult with the Commerce Ministry about a potential suspension of live swine exports. The goal is to ensure sufficient supply for local consumption and to stabilise prices.

 

In Ratchaburi province, home to the largest number of swine farms and breeding stocks, local livestock officials confirmed that pork prices are expected to remain high until mid-year. By then, newly raised swine will reach maturity and be ready for slaughter.

 

Before the ASF and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) outbreaks, Ratchaburi had approximately 200,000 breeding swine raised by 24,000 farmers. However, the diseases have led to significant losses, with about 20% of breeding swine, around 40,000, believed to have died.

 

Burin, a livestock chief in the province, explained that the loss of breeding swine will take three to four months to recover, as swine must mature for breeding. Afterward, it will take another five months for the piglets to reach maturity and be ready for consumption.

 

He concluded that a new batch of swine should be available for slaughter by July this year, offering some relief to the current supply shortage.

 

-      Thai PBS World