Thailand is set to recommence its durian exports to China, with rapid contamination tests for Basic Yellow 2 (BY2) currently in progress, Deputy Agriculture Minister Itthi Sirilatthayakorn announced. The Department of Agriculture, alongside laboratory operators, is finalizing the test procedures for BY2, a coloring additive with potential carcinogenic properties, to ensure the safety of Thai durian. "Laboratories will be ready to check China-bound durian within 48 hours," Itthi mentioned, highlighting the possibility of resuming shipments by Monday, pending clearance. This move is anticipated to facilitate durian sales from southern Thailand to China in time for the Lunar New Year celebrations.
Itthi also assured that durians rejected by China would not enter the Thai market, reflecting the commitment of the Department of Agriculture and related organizations to uphold safety standards. The discovery of the illegal use of BY2, imported from China and unregistered with the Thai Food and Drug Administration, prompted action from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives last September. Despite initial enforcement, a subsequent inspection revealed continued use of BY2 by durian packing plants funded by a Chinese investment group in Chumphon, leading to further warnings.
The issue of durian exports being halted at Nanning airport in China due to insufficient documentation proving the absence of BY2 underscores the challenges faced. Thai durian, a fruit highly coveted by Chinese consumers for its quality, saw export values soar to 90 billion baht in 2023, marking an 82% increase from the previous year, with China accounting for 70% of the total exports. The resumption of exports is critical for maintaining the lucrative trade relationship between Thailand and China in the durian market.
Source: Bangkok Post