Sweet setback: Thailand’s sugar exports face sticky situation with government controls

Thailand’s sugar exports, which sit second globally behind Brazil, are threatened with potential delays in the coming year. This comes after the Thai government implemented new controls to guard the domestic supply and curb smuggling.

The newly instated regulations require official approval for the export of any quantity exceeding one tonne, a move that some traders have voiced concerns could hamper delivery speed.

Rathavudh Saetang, the assistant marketing manager of Khonburi Sugar, a key exporter, spoke to Reuters about the implications.

“The premium of Thai sugar is that buyers get quality products on time. This reduces our premium and impacts the confidence of overseas buyers.”

Thailand’s sugar production has suffered due to drought conditions, with output…