Thai Union has announced that it will cease working with all external pre-processors and will bring all shrimp processing operations in-house.
From 1 January 2016 all processing works will be directly controlled by Thai Union to ensure all workers are in safe, legal employment and are treated fairly.
Thiraphong Chansiri, president and CEO of Thai Union, said: “I am pleased that we are implementing our plans to bring pre-processing of our shrimp products into Thai Union and are able to offer safe and legal employment to thousands more workers.”
He continued: “This is a positive step towards our goal of ridding the Thai seafood sector of illegal labour practices. We are committed to leading improvements in the industry and we hope this reminds all operators that they must remain focused on promoting good labour practices.”
The decision was taken following a review of its supply chain and the release of its Business Ethics and Labour Code of Conduct in 2015.
There was concern as to whether external pre-processors were adhering to the code of conduct.
“This is a very encouraging move by Thai Union underlining the company’s commitment to be part of the solution to elevate the Thai seafood industry and driving real change in the management of the category,” said Panisuan Jamnarnwej, honorary chairman of Thai Frozen Foods Association.
Dr Jamnarnwej concluded: "By bringing pre-processing operations in house, Thai Union will be able to monitor and promote the welfare of their workers directly.”
