November 17, 2023

Makro Thailand denies purchasing smuggled pork amid supplier scandal

Makro Thailand, a hypermarket chain operated by CP Extra Plc, issued a statement refuting claims that it has been procuring pork from Wealthy & Healthy Foods Co Ltd, a company implicated in the sale of illegally smuggled fresh pork from neighbouring countries, The Nation reported.

Wealthy & Healthy Foods president, Wirat (last name withheld), aged 69, and his son Thanakrit, aged 42, were arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Tuesday. The duo is connected to a smuggling ring that imported substantial quantities of frozen pork from a neighbouring nation between 2021 and early this year.

According to reports, both father and son are actively cooperating with the ongoing investigation, providing critical information about the recent shipment and other aspects of the smuggling operation, as disclosed by Department of Special Investigation (DSI) director-general Pol Major Suriya Singhakamol on Tuesday.

Contrary to any involvement, Makro asserted in its statement that it ceased pork purchases from Wealthy & Healthy Foods Co Ltd since mid-last year, upon discovering that the product failed to meet the hypermarket's stringent hygiene and quality standards.

The statement clarified that Makro also terminated swine liver purchases from the implicated firm, noting that the purchase orders under scrutiny were outdated.

Makro underscored its unwavering commitment to ensuring that all 157 branches nationwide offer high-quality products with traceable origins. The hypermarket emphasised its collaboration with farmers, disapproving of any illicit activities, such as smuggling, that could adversely impact farmers.

-      The Nation