The Cabinet approved a draft MOU on Thai-Malaysian agricultural cooperation that covers 13 sectors, including innovation, technology, managing plant and animal diseases, and food security, aimed at enhancing the capacity of Thailand's agricultural sector.
On 7 July 2026, Captain Phatdarasmi Thongsaluaykorn, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, announced that the Cabinet approved the draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Government of Malaysia on agricultural cooperation. The Cabinet also authorized the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, or a designated representative, to sign the MOU, scheduled for 9-10 July 2026 during the Prime Minister's official visit to Malaysia.
The Deputy Spokesperson explained that this new MOU is intended to replace the previous agreement in force since 1979. It updates the cooperation framework to align with current changes in the agricultural sector and global challenges such as climate change, food security, and the application of technology and innovation to enhance production efficiency.
Key aspects of the cooperation encompass 13 sectors including crop, livestock, and fisheries development; prevention and control of plant and animal diseases; research and development; transfer of agricultural technology and innovation; human resource development; information and knowledge exchange; and promotion of food security. These efforts aim to sustainably elevate the agricultural capacity of both countries.
The draft MOU has a five-year validity and will be automatically renewed every five years. The cooperation will be conducted on the basis of mutual benefit, respecting the laws and policies of each country.
"The government places great importance on advancing Thailand's agricultural sector through cooperation with neighboring countries. The exchange of knowledge, technology, and innovation will improve production efficiency, enhance management of plant and animal diseases, further develop quality and standards of agricultural products, and strengthen the long-term competitiveness of Thai farmers," the Deputy Spokesperson stated.