Malaysia is expanding its agricultural exports with the introduction of young coconuts to the Chinese market, aimed at fresh beverage consumption. The Malaysian agriculture department has prioritized aromatic coconut varieties, especially the pandan coconut, for their unique fragrance and sweetness, as per a statement by director-general Nor Sam Alwi.
The export initiative is facilitated by a new "protocol on phytosanitary requirements," enhancing biosecurity and ensuring high-quality production standards for Malaysian young coconuts. Previously, exports to China relied on general phytosanitary certificates without specific protocols.
Nor Sam emphasized the importance of adherence to good agricultural practices (myGAP) and the integrated pest management (IPM) system for registered farms under this protocol. These measures align with international standards to ensure the quality and safety of exported coconuts.
Local entrepreneurs, particularly those growing fragrant varieties like the pandan coconut, are encouraged to register for myGAP certification and comply with necessary processing standards for export eligibility. The export approval followed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on April 16 during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Malaysia.
The strategy to enter the Chinese market is part of a broader plan to diversify export destinations for Malaysian agricultural products. In 2023, Malaysia's coconut production reached 624,000 tons, with 6,000 tons of young coconuts exported. However, Malaysia also imports over 278,000 tons of mature coconuts for processing needs.
Support for coconut growers includes seedlings, fertilizers, pesticides, and infrastructure aid, targeting new planting, replanting, and rehabilitation efforts. Smallholders, numbering around 60,000, contribute over 80% of Malaysia's coconut production, highlighting their role in the industry's growth and sustainability.
Source: FMT