The Thai Cabinet recently dealt with issues related to durian exports after a shipment of 64 tons was turned away by China because it was contaminated with a harmful dye called Basic Yellow 2 (BY2). This situation has raised worries about the safety of Thailand’s durian exports, which are worth billions of baht each year.
During a Cabinet meeting, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat talked about the rejected shipment. They emphasized the importance of having strict testing processes in place to prevent such incidents from happening again.
As a result of the contamination, the Department of Agriculture has paused the export licenses of 26 wholesalers involved in sending the contaminated durians to China. There’s also a new rule that requires all durians meant for export to be tested in a lab for BY2 to ensure they meet safety standards.
Additionally, an investigation has been launched into Rapeepat Chansriwong, the head of the Agriculture Department, over bribery accusations related to the testing procedures for BY2. Rapeepat has been moved to a different position while the investigation is ongoing.
China, the main buyer of Thai durians, has tightened its import rules after discovering BY2 in some shipments. This situation highlights the need for strong quality control measures to maintain Thailand’s good name in the global durian market.
The discussions in the Cabinet show a commitment to improving the safety and quality of Thai agricultural exports. Ongoing efforts aim to rebuild trust with international trading partners and ensure the long-term success of Thailand’s durian export business.
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