Kuala Lumpur (VNA) – The Malaysian Department of Fisheries (DOF) has stated that it needs at least 30 days to assess documents provided by Thailand before considering the possibility of resuming imports of five prawn species from the country.
DOF Director-General Adnan Hussain said the technical team established by the department is expected to meet this week to examine the information submitted by Thailand during the second phase of the process.
According to the official, if the information provided is complete, the DOF will need at least 30 days to evaluate all relevant documents and data to gain a more comprehensive understanding before making a decision on Thailand's request to resume shrimp exports to Malaysia.
Malaysia has maintained restrictions on import permits for five prawn species from Thailand since June 1. Adnan said the suspension aims to ensure that prawns imported into Malaysia are free from diseases that could threaten the local aquaculture industry, as well as prohibited chemicals.
He added that Malaysia is facing a reciprocal issue, as exports of locally farmed prawns to Thailand have not been permitted since 2017./.