HM the King lauds patenting of Thai rice gene

BANGKOK, 25 June 2009 (NNT) – His Majesty the King yesterday expressed great pride over Thailand’s successful patent registration of rice that will safeguard the fragrance of Thai rice and its origin.

His Majesty the King extolled the patenting, acknowledging that there had been concerns amongst the public that Thai rice would be registered to a foreign nation. The patent, His Majesty remarked, reaffirms the origins of Thai rice and serves as a reminder to citizens of the importance of preserving this heritage. His Majesty thanked all that have contributed to the patenting of Thai rice on the behalf of the Kingdom.

His Majesty concluded by saying that the patenting of the rice gene will be a mark of pride for all Thai people.