Bangkok: The Cattle Breeders Association has formally petitioned the Prime Minister to take a stand against the policy allowing the import of beef and offal from the United States, citing significant impacts on local cattle farmers.

According to Thai News Agency, a group of protesters from the Thai Beef Cattle Association, led by Mr. Methee Sukulthanasorn, Vice President of the association, gathered near Government House to deliver their concerns. They submitted a letter to the Prime Minister requesting action against the import policy and assistance in ensuring local cattle processing facilities meet export and Halal standards. The association highlighted that the policy threatens the livelihoods of 1.4 million beef farmers managing over 9.6 million cattle, with an economic impact valued at over 28.8 billion baht.

The group expressed opposition to the policy, arguing that it compromises the basic economy, consumer protection regulations, and government policies, directly affecting the welfare of domestic farmers. Mr. Methee emphasized the importance of protecting local farmers to ensure their sustainable income and quality of life.

In addition to opposing the import policy, the association requested assistance with certification processes for local processing plants such as Kamphaeng Saen Beef Cooperative Limited and Premium Beef Company Limited, which are seeking to export beef to Malaysia. They urged the Prime Minister to expedite certification to boost domestic beef prices, benefiting local farmers.

The protest culminated in the submission of a formal letter to the Prime Minister, accepted by Mr. Somkid Chuekong, Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister (Political Affairs), along with other government officials.