BANGKOK, Thailand – The Thai government is stepping up efforts to support exporters and stimulate the economy by promoting air cargo shipments through the national carrier, Thai Airways, as part of a coordinated multi-ministry initiative.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn chaired a high-level meeting bringing together the Transport Ministry, representatives from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Commerce Ministry, and Thai Airways International to advance the plan under what he described as a “national agenda” built on the concept of “Thais helping Thais.”
The initiative focuses on unlocking export potential for high-value goods via air transport, particularly in two key sectors: ornamental animals and Thai medical herbal products.
Phiphat said Thailand has long faced limitations in exporting live, high-value animals—such as fighting cocks, ornamental fish like betta, Javanese doves, and red-whiskered bulbuls—often relying on foreign carriers due to regulatory and logistical constraints. Following recent discussions, Thai Airways has agreed to facilitate the transport of such animals, especially those destined for breeding or competitions in markets like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia.
These animals can fetch prices ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of baht per specimen. The air cargo process will involve specialized handling, including designated aircraft space, strict timing, and full compliance with vaccination and quarantine regulations to ensure animal welfare and disease prevention.
In parallel, the government has also resolved previous limitations surrounding the export of Thai medicinal herbal products. Previously restricted on certain routes with Thai Airways, these products—worth billions of baht annually—will now be accepted for international shipment by the national carrier following inter-agency coordination.
Officials say the move will directly benefit farmers, breeders, and entrepreneurs, while enhancing the global competitiveness of Thailand’s herbal and medical industries.
Phiphat concluded that the Transport Ministry had successfully acted as a central coordinator between stakeholders, leading to a breakthrough agreement with Thai Airways to support both sectors. The initiative is expected to generate significant foreign income while strengthening the long-term sustainability of the national airline. (TNA)
