April 24, 2008
Bangkok - Commerce Ministry will today meet three associations to find the root cause of the expensive rice problem, asking for manufacturers and retailers to report their rice stockpiles every week.
Mr. Yanyong Puangraj, director general of the Department of Internal Trade, revealed the department would discuss the rice issue with the Thai Rice Pakers Association, Thai Retailers Association and Thai Rice Millers Association to ensure there would be sufficient rice for domestic consumption.
Mr. Yanyong asked the Thai rice packers and retailers to report their rice stockpiles to him every week.
Exporters and millers were previously asked to report their stockpiles so that the total rice stock could be estimated.
Officials from the central region and provinces were sent to inspect the rice selling at places such as markets and retail shops.
The price of the 100% jasmine rice is currently at 149-209 baht, while 100% Pathumthani fragrant rice at 165-180 baht, 100% white rice at 136-160 baht and 5% white rice at 141-157 baht per pack respectively.
People are allowed to buy not more than three packs of rice at most supermarkets and retail chains to prevent rice hoarding.
