Thai Marine Shrimp Farmers Association president Suraphol Pratuangtum said three associations, including his own, needed government help after market prices dropped below actual costs during the past several months.
More shrimp farmers may be forced to close their businesses if the situation remains unchanged, he said.
Dr. Suraphol said all three associations want government help to boost the liquidity of shrimp exporters in order to assist them in selling their shrimp and shrimp products.
He also said it was important that Thailand officially urge the South Korean government to lower tariffs imposed on Thai shrimp, which the Thai producers say are higher than for other exporting countries and to help find new markets to import Thai seafood -- Russia, for example.
Thai shrimp farmers seek government help as prices drop
THAILAND - Three Thai shrimp production associations have asked the government for urgent assistance after local shrimp prices fell sharply, forcing some shrimp farmers to close their businesses.