Thailand Farmers Demand $70 Million from CPF for Tilapia Crisis
A landmark class-action lawsuit, with potentially far-reaching consequences for Thailand’s aquaculture industry, has been filed against Charoen Pokphand Foods Plc (CPF), one of the world’s largest agribusiness conglomerates. Ten fish farmers and breeders from Samut Songkhram province launched the suit, which the Bangkok South Civil Court accepted on Tuesday. The lawsuit alleges CPF is responsible for the devastating spread of the invasive blackchin tilapia, severely impacting local ecosystems and livelihoods.
Led by fish farmer and researcher Panya Tokthong, the plaintiffs seek 2.4 billion baht (approximately US$70 million) in compensation for economic losses. They argue the blackchin tilapia’s rapid proliferation has decimated native fish populations, crippling small-scale fisheries and farms nationwide. Represented by Sittiporn Lelanapasak and a legal team from the Lawyers Council of Thailand, the suit highlights growing concerns over the environmental and economic impacts of invasive species.
Initially filed last September, the case underwent thorough court review before acceptance. This victory for the plaintiffs could set a precedent for affected parties in 18 other provinces battling the same invasive species. Environmental lawyer Somchai Ameen emphasized the lawsuit’s landmark nature, suggesting it could pave the way for further legal action against CPF throughout Thailand.
The plaintiffs' central argument revolves around CPF’s alleged role in introducing the blackchin tilapia to Thailand. While CPF acknowledges importing the species from Ghana for research at its Amphawa breeding center in 2010, with Department of Fisheries permission, the company claims the project ended a month later due to high fish mortality. CPF asserts all specimens were disposed of according to approved protocols, with supporting documentation submitted to the Department of Fisheries. However, the department denies receiving such documentation, creating a key point of contention.
Despite CPF’s denial, the blackchin tilapia—first discovered in Amphawa near CPF’s breeding center—has spread to canals and waterways in at least 18 provinces. This widespread dispersal fuels suspicion and scrutiny of CPF’s initial handling of the species.
CPF vehemently denies responsibility and plans to vigorously defend itself, appealing the court’s decision within the seven-day timeframe. The company intends to present what it calls “scientific evidence and facts” to support its case, reaffirming its commitment to environmental protection and regulatory compliance. This legal battle highlights the complex interplay between corporate responsibility, environmental protection, and the challenges posed by invasive species. The outcome will significantly impact CPF and could shape future policies and regulations regarding the importation and management of non-native species in Thailand. In a separate action, CPF is pursuing a libel suit against the BioThai Foundation’s secretary-general over statements about the company’s alleged involvement in the blackchin tilapia’s spread, further complicating the controversy.
