Fertiliser imports to Thailand among benefits of improved relations.

The government is planning to import fertilisers from Saudi Arabia to ensure an adequate supply during the peak planting season, amid shortages in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

Securing a deal on fertilisers was among the trade objectives of a Thai delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister and MFA minister Don Pramudwinai last week. The delegation met with Khalid Abdulaziz Al-Falih, Minister of Investment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in an attempt to further restore economic relations.

It was the first time in 32 years high-ranking Thai officials had been in Saudi Arabia for formal talks. The visit is part of efforts to rebuild investment opportunities and create joint ventures after the restoration of full diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Tanee Sangrat, a spokesman for the MFA and director-general of its Department of Information, on Monday said Mr Don had made the fertiliser deal a priority.

According to data from the Internal Trade Department, Thailand uses about 5 million tonnes of fertiliser a year, but the country is capable of producing only 8% of that total and so relies on imports from the Middle East, China, Canada and Russia, among others.

Mr Tanee said that Saudi Arabia's Investment Minister has now prioritised Thailand's request despite many countries having also contacted Saudi Arabia for supplies of the same products. The Saudi Arabian minister ordered officials, suppliers and distributors to meet Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, to work on details.