Thai pomelos and cooked ducks have secured major victories in the international market as the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives proudly announced the green light given by the United States and Australia for their importation, respectively. These momentous achievements come as a result of years of arduous negotiations and are poised to open up new avenues for the flourishing Thai agricultural exports.
In a revelatory statement, Rapeepat Chantarasriwong, the Director-General of the Agriculture Department, unveiled that the United States has granted its approval for the importation of irradiated fresh pomelos from Thailand. This breakthrough marks a historic occasion, as it is the first time the United States has given its nod to Thai pomelos, without imposing any restrictions on specific strains. With this development, Thai pomelos have become the eighth fruit from Thailand to earn the coveted import approval of the United States. This remarkable feat follows the successful endorsements of Thai mango, mangosteen, rambutan, longan, lychee, pineapple, and dragon fruit.
Anticipating swift action, Rapeepat revealed that the initial shipment of Thai pomelos to the United States is expected to be transported by air next month, representing a significant milestone in enhancing trade relations between the two nations.
However, it is important to note that meeting the stringent import requirements set by the United States necessitates adherence to Good Agricultural Practice and Good Manufacturing Practices standards. At present, Thailand already exports fresh pomelos to 30 countries, with China and Malaysia serving as primary markets. In the year 2022 alone, Thailand successfully exported approximately 1 million tonnes of pomelos, valuing at about 45 million baht.
Simultaneously, another triumph for Thai agriculture was unveiled by Prayoon Insakul, the Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Cooperatives. Australia, a key market in the global agricultural landscape, has granted its consent for the importation of cooked ducks from Thailand. This milestone was reached through the approval of Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, which came into effect on May 16, ushering in a new era of trade opportunities for Thai cooked ducks.
The collective achievements of securing import approvals for Thai pomelos in the United States and cooked ducks in Australia have propelled Thailand’s agricultural industry to new heights. These significant breakthroughs not only reflect the exceptional quality and safety standards of Thai agricultural products but also strengthen Thailand’s position as a leading player in the global agricultural market. With these newfound opportunities, Thai farmers and exporters are primed to reap the rewards of their hard work and dedication, as they forge ahead into a promising future of expanded international trade and economic growth.
