Malaysia considers proposal to resume shrimp imports from Thailand

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.

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./.

VNA

See more

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto (R) welcomes Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in Jakarta on July 6. (Photo: VNA)

Indonesia, Singapore deepen comprehensive cooperation

Indonesia and Singapore signed 26 cooperation agreements, including 18 government-to-government agreements and eight business ones. The deals focus on emerging drivers of bilateral cooperation, including trade, investment, energy, the digital economy, cybersecurity, food supply chain development, environmental cooperation and carbon trading.

An Aedes aegypti mosquito. (Photo: Xinhua/VNA)

Malaysia's dengue-related deaths rise nearly 70% in first half of 2026

Health authorities attributed the increase partly to a shift in the dominant dengue virus strain from DENV-2 to DENV-3. Rapid urbanisation, favourable weather conditions, mosquito breeding sites and increased population mobility have also contributed to the spread of the disease.

Statistics show that Malaysia records GDP growth of 5.4% in the first quarter, while research organisations forecast growth of 4.6–4.9% in the second quarter. ( Illustrative photo: XINHUA/VNA)

Malaysia's economy projected to grow faster in 2026

Despite the positive outlook, economists cautioned that downside risks remain in the second half of the year, requiring Malaysia to closely monitor geopolitical developments and uncertainties in global trade.

Many travel companies have been granted halal certifications. (Photo: VNA)

Indonesia eyes larger share of global Muslim tourism market by 2030

Indonesia boasts strong advantages in developing the sector as the country is home to 11.3% of the world's Muslim population, 17% of Asia's, and 86% of ASEAN's. Nineteen provinces have Muslim populations exceeding 90%, providing a solid foundation for tailored tourism products.

Electric vehicles produced by Chinese automaker BYD. (Photo: Xinhua/VNA)

Thailand attracts over 4.1 billion USD in EV investment

In 2025, electrified vehicles accounted for more than 44% of new vehicle registrations in Thailand, up sharply from 3% five years earlier. Hybrid vehicles represented 21.8% of new registrations, followed by BEVs at 19.6% and PHEVs at 2.9%.

President of the Lao National Assembly Xaysomphone Phomvihane delivers the opening remarks at the first extraordinary session on July 6, 2026. (Photo: VNA)

Laos' 10th National Assembly opens first extraordinary session

The 10th National Assembly of Laos officially opened its first extraordinary session on July 6 in Vientiane, focusing on several key national issues, including the Government's report on the implementation of the national socio-economic development plan, the state budget and monetary policy during the first half of 2026, as well as priorities for the remainder of the year.

Thailand steps up security in 21 border provinces

Thailand steps up security in 21 border provinces

The Border Security Coordination Centre, chaired by Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Gen. Ukrit Boontanon, has agreed on measures to tackle three pressing security threats along the country's borders: call centre scam syndicates, online gambling, and human trafficking and drug-related crimes.

Singapore, Indonesia work on carbon credits, cross-border trade

Singapore, Indonesia work on carbon credits, cross-border trade

The two countries will collaborate on carbon credits under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on July 6 at the annual Singapore – Indonesia Leaders’ Retreat held in Jakarta, where Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.

FAO helps Laos push chilli exports

FAO helps Laos push chilli exports

Through the FAO-supported initiative, Laos aims to develop a modern chilli pepper industry that complies with international standards, expands exports and raises farmers' incomes.

Malaysia, Singapore to introduce digital immigration system

Malaysia, Singapore to introduce digital immigration system

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the initiative will be launched jointly with his Singaporean counterpart, Lawrence Wong, once all technical preparations and infrastructure have been completed. The new system will feature more advanced movement procedures to facilitate travel between Singapore and Johor.