Thailand is set to resume durian exports to China by Monday as officials conduct rapid contamination tests, according to Deputy Agriculture Minister Itthi Sirilatthayakorn.
The Department of Agriculture, along with laboratory operators, is nearing completion of tests for Basic Yellow 2 (BY2), a potentially carcinogenic coloring additive, to ensure the safety of Thai durian fruit, as stated in a parliamentary session.
“Laboratories will be prepared to check durian headed for China within 48 hours,” he noted, suggesting that deliveries could kick off again on Monday if the fruit passes inspection. The certification of export standards is expected to boost sales of southern Thailand’s durian during the upcoming Lunar New Year festivities.
Additionally, he assured that relevant agencies, including the Department of Agriculture, would prevent any rejected durian from being sold in Thailand.
Last September, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives uncovered the illegal usage of Basic Yellow 2, which had entered Thailand from China without approval from the Thai Food and Drug Administration.
This additive was found in durian packing plants designated for export, funded by a Chinese investment group in Chumphon province. These facilities were instructed to halt the use of the unregistered substance.
Despite this, follow-up inspections uncovered continued usage of Basic Yellow 2, leading to warnings being issued.
On Saturday, the ministry received reports that durian exports were rejected at Nanning airport in China due to missing documentation verifying that the products were free of Basic Yellow 2.
Thai durian enjoys immense popularity among Chinese consumers, who are willing to pay a premium for quality fruit. In 2023, Thai durian exports generated 90 billion baht, representing an 82% increase from 2022, with shipments to China accounting for 70% of total durian exports.
