Thailand's Commerce Minister, Pichai Naripthaphan, engaged in talks with the Chinese Ambassador in Bangkok to address export barriers for Thai durian to China. The discussions centered on stringent inspections and residue detection, impacting distribution during the harvest.
Pichai requested flexibility in testing for residues, particularly BY2, which faces 100% random inspection. He called for expedited customs processes, increased inspection resources, and additional personnel to handle expected durian volumes to China.
The Minister proposed real-time sharing of vehicle inspection statuses at border crossings to enhance coordination and facilitate efficient goods movement. The Chinese Ambassador agreed to communicate Thailand's concerns and suggestions to Beijing, aiming to streamline the export process.
The Ambassador emphasized Thailand's need to maintain rigorous contamination prevention standards, as BY2 residues have been detected upon arrival in China. The Thai Ministry of Commerce, alongside the Department of Agriculture, committed to addressing this.
In 2024, Thailand's durian exports to China were valued at $3.7 billion, totaling 833,000 tons, accounting for 97.4% of Thailand's total durian exports. The Department of International Trade Promotion and Thai commercial offices in China are monitoring the situation at Chinese import points.
Nanning Customs has prioritized ASEAN agricultural imports, extending hours, increasing staff, and implementing a pre-booking system. Future plans include expanding cargo lanes and constructing a BY2 testing lab by May 2025. Kunming customs have also extended hours and increased personnel, with five BY2 labs now testing 400 samples daily.
Marketing efforts are focusing on promoting Thai durian's unique flavor, expanding online sales, and featuring the fruit in trade exhibitions. Strategies include durian-based dishes in Thai SELECT restaurants, durian-themed tours, and buffets in Chinese shopping centers.
Source: The Nation Thailand