KUALA LUMPUR: The signing of a new protocol on the export of edible bird's nest (EBN) between Malaysia and China on Thursday (Nov 13) has further strengthened agricultural trade relations between the two countries, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu.
The Agriculture and Food Security Minister said the new protocol replaces the agreements signed in 2012 and 2016, and restores China's confidence in Malaysia's food safety and regulatory systems.
"Malaysia remains the first Asean country allowed to export raw, clean, and unclean bird's nests to China," he said in a Facebook post Thursday.
He said the export of EBN was temporarily suspended at the end of 2024 due to concerns over avian diseases, though no cases were detected among swiftlets. Following science-based discussions between Malaysia and China, exports resumed in January this year.
Mohamad said the new protocol guarantees long-term market access for Malaysia's EBN industry, which is now valued between RM2bil and RM2.2bil annually, with exports to China alone reaching RM1.5bil.
"Through the MyWalet system, which tracks more than 15,000 swiftlet houses, Malaysia continues to ensure compliance with quality standards and transparency.
"This collaboration benefits thousands of industry players and workers. Malaysia and China are also in talks to open more export channels, including for aquatic, poultry, and animal feed products," he said.
Mohamad also expressed his appreciation to the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC) for its continued cooperation and trust.
"I hope the strong ties between both nations will continue to grow for the benefit of the people and the industry," he added. - Bernama
