Thailand and China's Yunnan province recently engaged in discussions to enhance agricultural exports, focusing on fruit and rice. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan met Shi Yugang, Yunnan's deputy party secretary, at the ministry's headquarters in Nonthaburi's Muang district.
Pichai highlighted that Thailand's durian production is expected to reach 1.76 million tonnes this year, marking a 37% increase from the previous year. To mitigate potential market oversupply, he requested that Chinese authorities streamline import and durian inspection processes during April and May, when shipments peak. He assured that Thailand has addressed the Basic Yellow 2 contamination issue in durians, which had been a concern for Chinese importers.
Pichai also called for extended operating hours and increased inspection capacity at the Mohan border checkpoint to expedite product movement. He urged China to expedite the acquisition of 280,000 tonnes of rice under an existing agreement, citing Thailand's ample supply.
Shi Yugang expressed China's support for Thai agricultural exports, highlighting the improved China- Laos railway and Guan Lei Port. He invited Thailand to collaborate with China, Laos, and Myanmar on transportation infrastructure development to optimize trade routes. Additionally, Shi invited Thai businesses to a trade fair in Kunming in June, describing it as a chance to enhance bilateral trade cooperation.
The Department of International Trade Promotion notes that Yunnan is a key China-ASEAN trade hub, serving as China's gateway to Southeast Asia with transport links to Thailand via Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam. Bilateral trade with Yunnan is valued at US$1.84 billion, with Thailand exporting rubber goods, computers, fruits, and plastic beads, and importing machinery, chemicals, and home appliances.
Source: The Nation