Bagged rice prices move up in tandem with global prices

NONTHABURI, May 16 (TNA) – Bagged rice prices have increased in tandem with the global rice prices, said Somkiat Makayathorn สมเกียรติ มรรคยาธร, president of the Thai Rice Packers Association. Bagged rice prices, sold in supermarkets have increased by 20-30 baht per package however the prices will not be higher than that printed on the rice packages as concerned by many parties, he said. Consumers can choose Hom Mali bagged rice from various brands, offering lower prices or they can select white rice with lower prices, he added. Meanwhile, Commerce Minister Sonthirat Sonthijirawong said that this year’s rice yield is expected to increase 10-20 per cent due to suitable weather condition. Under the government’s measure to oversee rice prices, it is expected that the Hom Mali paddy price will stay at 15,000 baht per tonne this year and the white rice paddy price will reach at least 8,000 baht per tonne. The prices of agricultural goods have improved this year with strong demand for Thai farm products in the global market. The Department of Foreign Trade on Wednesday began the process to check qualifications of potential bidders, who will join the first bidding of 43,700 tonnes of rice for consumption in the government’s rice stocks in 15 provinces. The announcement of qualified bidders and bid submission is scheduled on Friday (May 18). (TNA)