Malaysian durian exporters are navigating a period of anticipation as they await the audit of their permit applications by the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) in September, aiming to export fresh durian to China. This development follows the historical exportation of frozen durian, marking a potential shift towards fresh fruit exports under newly applied for approved permits (APs). Despite existing challenges, such as stringent Chinese import requirements on quantity and quality, and the diversity of durian species in Penang complicating compliance, the industry remains optimistic about expediting the application process.
The export of fresh durian to China is part of broader agricultural engagements, evidenced by 14 memorandums of understanding signed with China, highlighting the transition from frozen to fresh durian exports under the new agreements. Malaysia's durian export, notably constituting 56% of the country's RM2 billion fruit export value last year, underscores the economic significance of this trade. The logistics of fresh durian export, whether via air or sea, hinge on the dynamics of supply and demand, with varying capacities outlined for different transport modes.
Compliance with Good Agricultural Practices (myGAP) and adherence to food safety management protocols, such as the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP), emerge as critical factors for farms and packing centers aspiring to meet export qualifications. The industry's stakeholders, including farmers and exporters, are gearing up for the GACC's audit, reflecting on the complexities and costs associated with meeting the stringent standards set forth by Chinese authorities. The evolving scenario encapsulates both the hurdles and the hopeful strides of Malaysian durian exporters in their quest to penetrate the Chinese market with fresh produce.
Source: nationthailand.com