The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has imposed stricter measures to make Thai fruits and vegetables free from chemical contamination, ensuring safety and creating confidence among Thailand’s export markets.

Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Narumon Pinyosinwat on 13 January 2025 chaired a meeting of the Committee on Fruit Development and Management, following news reports of China halting durian shipments from Thailand because of the detection of Basic Yellow 2 contamination. 

The meeting decided to tighten controls and inspections of durian exported to China. Tests will also be conducted for cadmium and pests in durian, including sulfur dioxide in longan. Violations will incur penalties, in accordance with the announcement of the Department of Agriculture. 

Minister Narumon said that the department had also announced contamination control measures for durian destined for China, effective on 10 January 2025 onward. Officials will inspect various packing facilities in the southern provinces Chumphon and Nakhon Si Thammarat, where durian is gradually entering the market. The inspection will ensure that they are complying with the new measures.

Minister Narumon stressed that serious action must be carried out in order to upgrade the quality of Thai durian and create confidence in its safety among consumers. 

She will accompany Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to visit China on 5-7 February and will discuss this issue with the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic China and assure China about the tightened measures, as well as the quality and safety of Thai fruits and vegetables.

From January to November 2024, Thailand exported 1.8 million tons of fresh fruits, worth 177 billion baht. Out of the total exports, durian, mangosteen, and longan accounted for 85.5 percent in volume and 94 percent in value. China was among major markets of Thai fruits.