Shrimp farmers’ loss is consumers’ gain

PHUKET: Shrimp lovers are being urged to eat up vast quantities in Thailand’s national interest. The price of Pacific white shrimp, a popular crop with shrimp farmers, has plummeted because of oversupply and anti-dumping measures being taken in the US and Europe. Prices that were around 200-230 baht a kilogram just weeks ago are now down to 80-100 baht. Tharadol Thongruang, Deputy Director of the Phuket Commercial Affairs office, said that about 180 shrimp farmers on Phuket have been seriously affected by the drop in price. Strong demand both locally and overseas has pushed production levels higher over the past year – but now the farmers, initially attracted to the business by the low overheads and the prospect of top prices, are facing a dramatic drop in income because of the new barriers in their overseas markets. “The US and the European Union decided to place limits on the amount of imported shrimp and, at the same time, rival producers such as China, India and Vietnam also increased output,” K. Tharadol explained. Phuket officials are trying to help the local farmers by urging 200 island hotels and stores to promote shrimp dishes to guests. Over the longer term, shrimp growers are being advised to consider farming alternatives such as fish or shellfish. Meanwhile, local consumers have been quick to take advantage. Supercheap, which normally sells 300 kilos a day of the Pacific white shrimp, saw sales leap to a ton a day or more. Anyone interested in buying fresh shrimp in large quantities should contact K. Tharadol at Tel: 076-212017 during office hours.