On August 24, 2026, the Thai Tuna Industry Association (TTIA), represented by Mr. Voravee Eangchuan, Secretary General; Dr. Adisorn Promthep, Advisor; and Ms. Anusara, Senior Officer, attended the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on cooperation in research and development of knowledge concerning phosphate substances in canned fish products.

     The ceremony was held at the Chulabhorn Building, Department of Fisheries, and organized by the Fish Inspection and Quality Control Division (FIQCD), Department of Fisheries, with Ms. Thitiporn Laoprasert, Director-General of the Department of Fisheries, presiding over the ceremony. The key points are summarized as follows:

     The MOU was signed by three parties: the Department of Fisheries, represented by Ms. Thitiporn Laoprasert, Director-General of the Department of Fisheries; the Thai Tuna Industry Association (TTIA), represented by Mr. Voravee Eangchuan, Secretary General; and the Thai Food Processors Association (TFPA), represented by Ms. Panadda Kanchana, Vice Chair of the Tuna and Seafood Producers Group.

     The cooperation aims to establish a reliable scientific database on phosphate levels throughout the production process, from raw material reception and processing to finished products. It also aims to distinguish naturally occurring phosphates in raw materials from phosphates that may result from the production process. The findings will be used to support future trade negotiations and provide clarification to the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC) and other trading partners, with the objectives of reducing trade barriers and strengthening confidence in the quality and safety standards of Thai products.

     The project will be implemented over a one-year period, with the participation of 15 canned fish processing plants, comprising 6 plants in the southern region, 8 plants in the central region, and 1 plant in the eastern region. The Department of Fisheries will provide technical support, researchers, and experts, while TTIA and TFPA will support the project by providing raw material information, funding, and operational expenses.

     Through this collaboration, the three parties will jointly develop scientific knowledge, enhance the competitiveness of the Thai canned fish industry, and strengthen confidence in the quality and safety of Thai canned fish products in the global market.