Abu Dhabi: In a significant development, Thailand has replaced its Ambassador to the World Trade Organization (WTO), Pimchanok Vonkorpon Pitfield, following a robust protest by India. The move came in response to Pitfield’s controversial comments on India’s rice procurement program during a consultation meeting.
India expressed deep disappointment over Pitfield’s remarks, accusing New Delhi of utilizing its rice procurement program not for public welfare but for gaining an edge in the export market. The Indian government formally registered its protest with the Thai government and conveyed displeasure to WTO Chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Kenyan agri committee chair, and the UAE.
The decision to replace Pitfield was confirmed by a top government official who mentioned that Pitfield will return to Thailand after the ongoing 13th ministerial conference. India, in addition to the protest, abstained from participating in certain group deliberations where the Thai representative was present.
The government official emphasized that Pitfield’s statements were factually incorrect, highlighting that only about 40% of the paddy produce is procured by the government to meet food security commitments. India is a major player in global rice exports, often facing allegations from various nations that its public stockholding distorts global market prices.
In 2023, India banned the export of broken and non-basmati white rice due to uncertainties in rice production globally. India, being the largest rice exporter from 2018 to 2022, has a significant role in the world rice market.
Thailand, part of the Cairns group of agriculture exporters, joined by Argentina, Brazil, Australia, and Indonesia, advocates for the free flow of agricultural commodities without restrictions.
This diplomatic development underscores the complexities of international trade relations, particularly in the realm of agriculture, where major players like India and Thailand navigate issues impacting global market dynamics.
