Thailand will set aside 2.8 million tonnes from its sugar output for domestic consumption in 2011, the highest ever, according to a senior official recently. Traders said there would be minimal impact on exports but the move might help prevent hoarding and calm consumers, helping avert any food crisis ahead of an upcoming general election. “This is a preventive measure,” Prasert Tapaneeyangkul, secretary-general of the Office of Cane and Sugar Board (OCSB), told Reuters, meaning the quota was higher than normal after high demand caused a domestic shortage last year. However, he added that Thailand should produce more sugar than… Login to continue

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