Some traders were skeptical about the government's ability to sell off remaining stocks in just two months. It previously said it aimed to clear the stockpile by the end of 2017.
"Auctions will start next week, with 1 million tones of rice for each lot. We aim to auction it all off within two months," said Commerce Ministry permanent secretary Chutima Bunyapraphasara, who is also secretary of the rice management board.