Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai revealed efforts are underway to find new markets for Thai shrimp following Malaysia's suspension of imports. The affected shrimp quantities are planned to be distributed through the Thai Help Thai program, and she is confident that the situation can be managed.
At 09:15 on 10 June 2026 GMT+7 at the Government House, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Suthumpun commented on Malaysia's announcement to suspend imports of five Thai shrimp species. She said that medium- and long-term solutions require jointly seeking additional markets to avoid overreliance on a single market. When asked whether the over 400 tons of shrimp per month not exported to Malaysia could be distributed domestically, Supachai responded affirmatively, stating plans are already in place for immediate action. She emphasized the need to support affected farmers by absorbing the shrimp into new markets and creating activities in collaboration with modern trade channels within the Thai Help Thai program. She expressed confidence that the affected shrimp volume can be managed effectively and acknowledged the problem exists, committing to minimizing its impact. Thai shrimp products include processed and frozen forms, for which additional markets are also being sought. She stressed the importance of negotiating with Malaysia to clarify that Thai shrimp have no issues and criticized Malaysia's immediate suspension as likely improper, suggesting a gradual approach from strict to lenient measures rather than an abrupt halt. She offered encouragement to the Department of Fisheries to resolve discussions with Malaysia and affirmed the responsibility to assist affected fisheries operators by maximizing product distribution.