PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has never approved the export of fresh durians to China via land routes through transit countries, says the Agriculture Department, following concerns over shipments using such routes.
In a statement Thursday (July 2), the department said it had received feedback from China's General Administration of Customs (GACC) that the export of fresh Malaysian durians through transit countries was not covered under the current protocol.
"Based on this feedback, the department has never permitted the use of land routes for the export of fresh durians to China at this time until a new protocol or amendments to the existing protocol are finalised and agreed upon by both parties," it said.
The department said it would hold further discussions with GACC on the proposed implementation of land-route exports, focusing on traceability, biosecurity, phytosanitary requirements and supply chain integrity.
The department will also engage with the Transport Ministry and the Malaysian Agricultural Representative Office in Bangkok to obtain details on logistics requirements, cross-border agreements, transit procedures and regulatory matters should such exports be allowed in the future.
Separately, the department said it was studying the potential export of value-added products, including pre-cut fresh durian, amid growing interest from the industry.
It said any proposal would need to be backed by comprehensive scientific and technical studies to ensure quality, food safety and product shelf life throughout the distribution process.
The department added that it was working with the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute on the necessary studies before any proposal is submitted to importing countries for consideration.
"The Agriculture Department remains committed to strengthening the competitiveness of the country's durian industry and expanding export market access through compliance with international standards, stronger trade ties and close cooperation with all stakeholders," it said.
