The move is to ensure enough supply for domestic consumption in Thailand, which is the world's top rice exporter, the newspaper quoted government sources as saying.

Although it may never be implemented, the contingency plan is now being prepared by the two senior economic ministers -- deputy prime minister Supachai Panitchpakdi and finance minister Tarrin Nimmanahaeminda. The plan is expected to be submitted to the cabinet within two weeks, it said.

The sources told The Nation that it was much like preparation for war, with an increase in the fiscal 1999 (October-September) government budget, tax cuts, controls on speculative funds and foreign borrowings and a fierce fight to maintain Thailand's exports share in the world market.

But rice, which is a basic staple, will be anexception.

While Thai rice would have potential in the world market because of tighter supplies, excessive exports could cause trouble back home and threaten foods security, the plans authors argue.