Thailand weighs food reserve as prolonged Middle East war raises concerns
Officials say existing food supplies are sufficient, with rice and chicken egg output exceeding domestic needs, and households do not need to stockpile.
A national food reserve is under consideration in Thailand as a longer-term safeguard against supply and economic disruption linked to extended fighting in the Middle East. The National Security Council is examining the proposal while officials say current food availability remains sufficient.
The Nation reported that the council rates a lengthy war staying mostly within the Middle East as the likeliest scenario. A broader regional conflict ranks second and, in the council’s assessment, could severely disrupt global energy markets, economies and supply chains.
Gen. Chaipruak Doungprapat, the council’s secretary-general, said Thailand must prepare for threats affecting its economy, food, energy and cybersecurity, even though it lies outside the immediate area of fighting.
Security officials said households had no reason to accumulate essential goods. Thailand produces more rice and chicken eggs than it consumes, and has adequate stocks of vegetable oil and milk. The council also urged authorities to explain risks without creating needless anxiety.
Assistant Professor Dr. Manoch Aree of Srinakharinwirot University warned that cyberattacks could threaten essential infrastructure. He cited hackers’ interference with refrigeration controls in Europe that damaged stored food ingredients. Academics have urged security agencies to plan for communications and digital systems failing at the same time.
Separately, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation advised residents to put together emergency kits covering 72 hours for natural disasters or unforeseen incidents.
