THAI DURIAN EXPORTS UNDER CADMIUM SCRUTINY

BANGKOK, Sept 25 (Bernama-TNA) -- Thailand is investigating reports of cadmium contamination in durians exported to China and has so far found that the durians in question did not originate from Thailand, Thai News Agency (TNA) reported.

The General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) has issued alerts about cadmium-tainted durian shipments from Thailand, prompting a temporary suspension of exports from affected companies, packing houses, and GAP-certified orchards.

Thailand’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has dispatched Department of Agriculture officials to collect samples of durians, soil, water, and production inputs to test for contamination. Preliminary tests show cadmium levels within China’s limit of 0.05 mg/kg.

Prayoon Insakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, revealed that the initial investigations suggested the contaminated fruits were not from southern Thailand, where durians were currently in season.  

Authorities were gathering information to resolve the issue without disrupting exports, he added.

Sources said the cadmium contaminated durians likely originated in a third country.

Thai officials emphasised that China has not imposed a ban on durian imports from Thailand, and exports are continuing as normal.  

The Department of Agriculture is also intensifying efforts to prevent illegal durian imports from neighbouring countries, which could impact domestic prices and quality standards.

Thailand, a major durian exporter, is working to maintain its market share and reputation in China, a key destination for its tropical fruit exports.

To ensure the safety and quality of their products, leading exporters like Platinum Fruit have implemented rigorous testing procedures. This includes pre-season soil and water testing, ongoing inspections, and random sampling before export.

According to an executive of Platinum Fruit, this rigorous testing process is not solely for the Chinese market, as the company exports produce to multiple countries. The company adheres to the highest standards to assure consumers worldwide of the safety and quality of its products.

-- BERNAMA-TNA