With a possibility of the draft bill which bans "exaggerated" advertisements promoting formula milk coming into effect next year, the Ministry of Public Health expects the breastfeeding rate to rise by at least 50% by 2025.
"If the bill passes, the figure could possibly continue to increase and the target of a rise of at least 50% can become achievable," said Thongchai Lertwilairatanapong, deputy directorgeneral of the ministry's department of health.
Mr Thongchai said the breastfeeding rate, which rose from 12% in 2012 to 23% last year, is still considered poor. The bill would help upgrade Thailand from the lowest rate of exclusive breastfeeding in the Southeast Asian region.
Mr Thongchai, however, insisted the ministry's move did not mean to say formula milk is not beneficial, but its benefits cannot match breast milk.