Malaysia maintains RM1.5 billion bird’s nest export access to China with new protocol, replacing 2012 and 2016 agreements for raw-clean and raw-unclean varieties
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has preserved its edible bird’s nest export market to China through a newly signed inspection and quarantine protocol.
The agreement ensures continuity for trade worth approximately RM1.5 billion annually between the two nations.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu signed the Protocol on Inspection, Quarantine and Hygiene Requirements with China’s Minister of General Administration of Customs Sun Meijun.
“This protocol sets out the latest technical requirements relating to veterinary inspection, hygiene, labelling and auditing for the export of clean and uncleaned raw EBN to China,” Mohamad said in a statement.
The new agreement replaces previous protocols signed in 2012 for clean raw edible bird’s nest exports and 2016 for uncleaned varieties.
China remains the primary destination for Malaysian edible bird’s nest exports, with shipments increasing from 201 tonnes in 2022 to 484 tonnes in 2024.
“The signing of this protocol is very important to ensure the continuity of Malaysian bird’s nest exports to the Chinese market,” Mohamad emphasised.
He added that the agreement strengthens Malaysia’s reputation as a leading supplier of high-quality edible bird’s nest products in the region.
The Department of Veterinary Services will continue regulating certification, veterinary safety and inspection of registered processing plants.
They will collaborate with the Ministry of Health and the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Service.
Malaysia also plans to expand agricultural trade cooperation with China, including finalising a new poultry export protocol soon.
The implementation is expected to benefit over 15,000 swallow house operators and 61 GACC-approved processing plants.
This development will enhance the competitiveness of Malaysia’s agro-food exports in the international market. – Bernama
