China Relaxes Auramine Testing Requirements for Thai Durians

Thailand recently entered its peak season for durian production, resulting in a significant backlog at border inspection stations and a sharp decline in prices. Data from Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives indicate that an average of 500 to 600 containers of Thai durians, totaling approximately 10,000 metric tons, are exported daily to China via land, sea and air. However, many shipments reportedly remain stranded each day at border crossings awaiting inspection and clearance.

According to Thai media reports, on May 9, Narumon Pinyosinwat, Thailand’s Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, stated that the ministry and the General Administration of Customs of China had reached an agreement to conduct joint assessments of Thai durian packaging facilities. In addition, beginning May 10, China Customs has lowered its inspection rate for auramine O testing on durians originating from well-managed packaging facilities.

Pinyosinwat also said that during her visit to Beijing in February, she held discussions with Sun Meijun, head of the GACC. The talks focused on promoting and facilitating agricultural trade between the two countries. Key topics included improving the quality, standards and safety of agricultural products, as well as developing guidelines and measures to ensure the continued export of Thai durians to China while addressing related challenges.

Fresh Thai durians are required to undergo auramine O testing before being exported to China. Currently, Thailand is reported to have nine certified laboratories capable of conducting this testing, with four additional facilities in the process of reapplying for certification. Thai authorities are confident that there are sufficient resources to effectively manage the high volume of durian exports to China.

Additionally, Pinyosinwat stressed the importance of businesses strictly adhering to regulations governing durian production and export. Business owners are required to maintain regular cleaning of their packaging facilities and equipment to ensure smooth export operations.

Image: Pixabay

This article was translated from Chinese. Read the original article.