US corn imports to ease Thai feed costs

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Thailand’s Chamber of Commerce has reassured farmers that planned imports of one million tons of US corn will stabilize feed costs without undermining local production. The Nation Thailand reported that the measure aims to balance supply chains and strengthen food security.

Imports designed to stabilize feed costs

Thailand consumes 8.5–9 million tons of animal-feed corn annually but produces only 4.8–5 million tons domestically. This leaves a shortfall of 3–4 million tons each year. The Chamber emphasized that the planned import of one million tons from the US is part of existing needs, not a replacement for Thai farmers’ output.

Imports will occur between February 1 and June 30, ahead of the local harvest, to avoid direct competition. Farmer-protection rules remain in place, requiring importers to buy three parts local corn for every one part imported corn.

Supporting food industry competitiveness

Feed costs are a major expense for chicken, pork, eggs, milk, seafood, and pet food. Research from Kasikorn Research Center suggests US corn imports could reduce feed costs by 8%, easing consumer prices and supporting long-term competitiveness.

Thailand is a leading exporter of chicken, shrimp, seafood, processed food, and pet food, industries that depend on reliable feed supplies and compliance with international standards. Stable raw material prices are critical to maintaining competitiveness in global markets.

Diversifying sources for food security

Thailand already imports 1–2 million tons of corn annually from Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia under the AFTA framework. The Chamber noted that diversifying sources toward countries with stronger environmental and traceability standards, such as the US, could reduce risks linked to agricultural burning and PM2.5 pollution.

Officials described the policy as part of broader trade negotiations aimed at balancing economic relations and reducing tariff pressures. The government pledged to continue supporting farmers while ensuring food-price stability.

Expanding US-Thailand trade cooperation

The Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade of Thailand will co-host the Thailand-US Trade & Investment Forum 2026 with the US Chamber of Commerce and AMCHAM Thailand on August 17, 2026. The forum will focus on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and future industries.