Pesticide Markets and Related Situations in Thailand

Abstract

The analysis is based on secondary data during 1985-2000, using descriptive method. The paper shows pesticide imports, classified by types and major supplier countries. Crop protection policy and related situations are then shown. The amount of pesticide imports reached a peak at 45,701 tons in 1996 and then declined to 41,074 tons in 2000. However, pesticide import values were 4,922 million bahts in 1996 and it was 7,226 million baths in 1998. This was because of the currency impact. Three major types of pesticide import were insecticide, fungicide and herbicide. In 1994, the pesticide statistics listed 71 pesticide importers originating from 33 countries. In 1998 (January-June), Israel was the major supplier followed by China, Germany, Malaysia and Indonesia. Pesticide for agricultural uses have been exempted from import duty, business and municipal taxes since 1991. Impacts of pesticides for example health hazards and residues were concerned. So alternatives of integrated pest management, bio-technical pest control, and sustainable agriculture are recommended.