BANGKOK, March 4 (TNA) – The Bangkok South Civil Court has authorized a class-action lawsuit against Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL, Thailand’s leading agro-industrial conglomerate, brought by farmers alleging environmental damage from the invasive blackchin tilapia.
The court’s decision allows the case to proceed collectively, citing common legal and factual issues, but does not indicate CPF’s liability.
Farmers accuse CPF of disrupting ecosystems and livelihoods, attributing the rapid spread of the tilapia, which has harmed native species and aquaculture, to the company’s operations.
CPF denies responsibility, citing adherence to international standards and environmental sustainability, and plans to appeal, presenting scientific evidence in its defense.
The court emphasized that the class-action approval streamlines the legal process for numerous plaintiffs but requires further proceedings to determine CPF’s responsibility. -819 (TNA)
