PUTRAJAYA: The outcome of negotiations with Thailand on several fisheries and agricultural trade issues, including Bangkok’s ban on Malaysian shrimp exports since 2017, is expected to be announced by the end of this month.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said discussions between the two countries are in the final stage, following a visit by officials from Thailand’s Agriculture Ministry to Malaysia.
“Officials from Thailand’s Agriculture Ministry have already visited Malaysia, and our side will also carry out inspections.
“The matter is now at the final stage of resolution, and we hope it can be settled as soon as possible,” he told reporters after opening the Global Animal Production and Veterinary Industry Summit 2026 on Tuesday (July 21).
When asked when an official announcement would be made, Mohamad said he would check with the officers involved in the negotiations.
“It will not take long. If all goes well, Insya-Allah, it will be before the end of this month,” he said.
Mohamad also stressed that any solution reached would be the result of negotiations between both countries.
“This is a negotiation involving both sides, not a decision made by one party alone,” he said.
The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry had, from June 1, temporarily restricted the import of five types of shrimp from Thailand.
The five are giant tiger prawn (black tiger), whiteleg shrimp, banana shrimp, brown shrimp (brown tiger), and blue shrimp.
The ministry also requires seabass imported from Thailand to come with a certificate of analysis.
Earlier, Mohamad said the two-day summit brought together more than 120 participants, mainly professionals, to discuss issues related to the livestock industry, animal health and welfare, as well as food security.
