Recently, Thailand’s Minister of Industry Varawut Silpa-archa stated in an interview that the Khorat and Sakon Nakhon Basins in northeastern Thailand are rich in potash resources. The development of potash mines is of great significance for safeguarding Thailand’s security of agricultural and industrial raw materials, reducing reliance on fertilizer imports, and unlocking the economic value of mineral resources.

In the interview, Minister Varawut elaborated on the far-reaching impacts of potash project commissioning on growing the local economy and cutting agricultural production costs. He noted that Thailand currently imports approximately 5 million tonnes of fertilizers a year worth 65 billion baht, including 1 million tonnes of potash valued at 14 billion baht. Local potash production will substitute such imports and bring down agricultural costs. Potash can also supply sectors such as daily chemicals, pharmaceuticals and ceramics, while surplus capacity can be exported to generate revenue. Once all planned projects reach full operation, Thailand’s total potash production capacity will hit 3.2 million tonnes per annum. After meeting domestic demand, around 2.2 million tonnes may be exported each year, generating export proceeds of over 30 billion baht and helping Thailand build itself into an ASEAN hub for potash production and exports. He also outlined the environmental control plans supporting project development and the progress of three key potash projects in northeastern Thailand, including Asia Pacific Potash Corporation (APPC).

This public statement by Minister Varawut marks another strong show of support for the projects, following his on-site inspection tour of APPC in mid-June this year. It fully demonstrates the high priority attached to the projects by relevant Thai authorities and fosters a more stable and favorable public opinion environment for continued project advancement.

APPC will strictly comply with requirements set by local Thai government authorities, push forward the Udon South Project in a law-abiding, efficient and orderly manner, and strive to deliver a high-quality benchmark project and a flagship example of China-Thailand cooperation at an early date.