Brunei likely to buy more Thai rice

Brunei likely to buy more Thai rice

Brunei is expected to increase its imports of rice from Thailand because it is favoured by 90% of the population for its healthy properties, according to government spokesman Yongyuth Mayalarp.

He was speaking when the delegation led by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha arrived back in Bangkok from Brunei on Thursday morning.

Mr Yongyuth told reporters at Wing 6, Don Mueang airport, the prime minister had thanked Brunei for its support for Thai rice. The country imported 30,000 tonnes of Thai rice last year.

The spokesman quoted Brunei authorities as replying that 90% of the Brunei population ate Thai rice and that imports were likely to increase because it was considered to be healthy and reduced the risk of diabetes, especially riceberry rice and brown rice.

During Gen Prayut's two-day visit the two governments signed a memorandum of understanding on agricultural cooperation. Mr Yongyuth said the MoU covered cooperation on fisheries and livestock development and the halal food industry.

Gen Prayut asked Brunei to invest in halal food production in Thailand as there was big export potential, the spokesman said.

He added that the Sultan of Brunei accepted Gen Prayut's invitation for an official visit to Thailand in the near future.

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