4.3 Million Kilograms of Illicitly Imported Frozen Pork Seized

Customs Department Spokesperson Phantong Loykulnanta has revealed that the Department has seized 161 containers of illegally imported frozen pork carcasses at the Laem Chabang port. The consignments, originating from various countries, have been found to lack clear sources and the necessary documentation certifying animal slaughter and veterinary hygiene. This poses significant risks of disease spread, threatening local consumers and domestic livestock farmers.

Having finalized the legal proceedings, the Customs Department handed over 159 containers to the Animal Quarantine Station in Chonburi province under the Department of Livestock Development on June 9th, for disposal in accordance with the Animal Epidemic Act. The remaining two containers are still subject to ongoing legal proceedings by the Laem Chabang Port Customs Office and thus could not be released for disposal.

Previously, the Customs Department forwarded the case to the Central Investigation Bureau to prosecute the offenders and all involved parties, both corporate and individual entities, including customs officials, government agencies, and other relevant parties. These entities are all implicated in the unauthorized importation of animals or animal carcasses and are to be held accountable under the law.

Moreover, the department has taken preventative measures and cracked down on the smuggling of live pigs, pork, and pig organs. A working group has been set up to coordinate efforts to solve issues related to the illegal importation of pork and pork parts, as well as the management of confiscated items.

The group comprises the Customs Department, the Department of Livestock Development, the Department of Internal Trade, the Department of Foreign Trade, and the National Swine Farmers Association, with an aim to protect society from potential disease outbreaks.