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BANGKOK, Dec. 8, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- With recent news that the Biosafety Bill has been met with cabinet approval, leading Thailand farmer group National Confederation for Safe, Secure and Sustainable Agriculture (NCSSSA) voiced their strong support today for the government's action. The bill, which would introduce a regulatory framework for potential GMO crop cultivation in Thailand, was proposed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) and now moves to the National Legislative Assembly for consideration.
Joining NCSSSA in today's announcement is prominent Thai farmer Sukan Sangwanna, a provincial member of the National Farmers Council.
"The farmers of Thailand are among the finest in the world, and our position as a leading food exporter proves it," said Sangwanna. "But with the increasing number of challenges they face, and the growth of modern agriculture in the region and world -- our farmers are at risk of being left behind. On behalf of Thai farmers, I would like to commend our nation's cabinet for putting our farmers first."
Estimates indicate the world's population will exceed nine billion inhabitants by the year 2050. Asia alone is projected to have roughly one billion more people calling it home. Within just 10 short years, an additional 60 million men, women and children will be living in the Southeast-Asian region. To meet these demands, growers in Thailand and around the world will need to produce more food – as much as 70% more than today.
Due to the impact of less available water and arable land, the growing threat of pests and disease, and a changing climate to confront, Thailand farmers are increasingly being asked to do more with fewer resources -- in turn, threatening their livelihood and the food security of our nation.
The technological advancements of plant science (including GMO or plant biotechnology) are a critical tool in the collective efforts to eliminate food insecurity in Thailand and hunger in many countries around the world. According to the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA), plant biotechnology increased crop yields 22% and increased farmer profits 68% during the 20-year period of 1995 to 2014.
"Make no mistake, this is a step forward for our nation's farmers on the road to better ensuring Thailand's food security," added Sangwanna. "Our nation's farmers are proud to stand with the Government of Thailand in this important effort."
For more information, please contact:
James Best
Communications Director
Aziam Burson-Marsteller (ABM)
Tel: 02-252-9871
Email address: james.best@abm.co.th
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