Thailand, Malaysia Set 30-Day Deadline to Resolve Shrimp Export Ban
Thailand and Malaysia have set a 30-day deadline to resolve a shrimp import ban following talks between their agriculture ministers, with both nations agreeing to accelerate food safety inspections to resume trade.
The Thai Shrimp Association announced progress on July 6 following a bilateral meeting between Thailand's Agriculture Minister Suryia Jungrungreungkit and Malaysia's Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Sabu on July 1 regarding Malaysia's suspension of Thai shrimp imports.
Both governments agreed to accelerate residue and food safety inspection procedures so that imports and exports can resume normal operations within 30 days. The association thanked the government for addressing shrimp farmers' concerns and advancing concrete negotiations with Malaysia.
Association President Ekpetch Yodphithi called this a crucial first step opening the way for Thai negotiators to pursue discussions on both trade dimensions and technical food safety standards, which must be conducted carefully, transparently, and with consideration for national interests in both exports and consumer protection.
"Food safety inspection processes are necessary and should be conducted rigorously, but must be transparent, efficient, and not used as a trade barrier to ensure fairness for all parties," Ekpetch said.
With Prime Minister Anuthim Charnvirakul scheduled to visit Malaysia on July 8, the association urged the government to complete negotiations and related processes within the agreed 30-day timeframe. This is particularly urgent as natural shrimp supplies are expected to increase after the Department of Fisheries lifts its bay closure measures.
"On behalf of Thailand's shrimp industry, we encourage the government and negotiating team. Shrimp farmers across the country have placed their hopes in this government and these negotiations," Ekpetch said.
