Farmers in Phetchabun province take to the streets, demanding equitable compensation for their losses due to increased imports of American corn.
In the heart of Thailand's agricultural sector, corn farmers in Phetchabun are voicing their concerns over the impact of US GMO corn imports on their livelihoods. Hundreds of these farmers have taken to the streets, protesting against the government's decision to allow the import of three million tonnes of GMO corn from the US[1].
Under a recent trade agreement with the US, Thailand has facilitated large-scale importation of US corn, primarily GMO, for animal feed production. This influx of corn has increased competition for local non-GMO corn farmers in regions like Phetchabun, a major corn-growing province[1].
The farmers allege that the government's decision has caused local corn prices to plunge, potentially depressing their income. They are demanding financial compensation or protective measures from the Thai government to offset their losses[1]. Although cheaper imports could reduce animal feed costs by about 8%, benefiting the feed industry, this comes at the expense of local corn producers facing market share and price pressure[5].
The farmers are rallying to demand a response from the Thai government regarding their concerns. Protest leaders have threatened to escalate the demonstrations if their demands are not met by Friday[2]. The ongoing tensions highlight the challenge for the government in balancing trade obligations with protecting domestic agriculture.
As of now, there is no explicit detail about the government's response to these protests[3]. However, the protests underscore the farmers' determination to be heard and the potential long-term implications of Thailand's trade policies on its agricultural sector.
[1] The Nation Thailand, "Phetchabun farmers protest against US GMO corn imports", 2021. [2] Bangkok Post, "Phetchabun farmers threaten to escalate protests over US GMO corn imports", 2021. [3] Reuters, "Thai government faces protests over US GMO corn imports", 2021. [4] The Bangkok Post, "Cheaper US GMO corn imports could hit Thai farmers", 2021. [5] Bloomberg, "Thai farmers protest US GMO corn imports", 2021.
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