Jackfruit exports can reach RM22mil, says deputy minister

NANNING: The export value of the Malaysian jackfruit (nangka) could reach RM22.1mil by 2025, says Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Chan Foong Hin following the fruit’s debut in China.

“Malaysia’s jackfruit exports are equivalent to RM15mil. After the fresh jackfruit export (to China), it is expected that the export value could reach RM22.1mil by 2025,” he said after attending the 20th China-Asean Expo (CAEXPO) in Nanning, China yesterday.

Chan said that he joined Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on his trip to Nanning, China to attend the CAEXPO and to launch the first shipment of Malaysian jackfruits to China.

“This morning, Anwar launched the opening ceremony of the Malaysia Pavilion in CAEXPO, which marks the first batch of nangka exports to China,” he added. The Malaysian jackfruit for the Chinese market is the J33 variety which is known for its sweetness, crunchy texture and golden yellow colour.

The debut of the jackfruit in China is a milestone as negotiations with Chinese officials had started back in 2004.

China approved the imports in April this year following Anwar’s maiden visit to Beijing as prime minister.