Suriya is ready to send a letter to Malaysia addressing the suspension of Thai shrimp imports. If the Department of Fisheries' negotiations are unsuccessful, preparations will be made to review measures on importing sea bass from Malaysia.
On 5 June 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, discussed issues related to Thai shrimp exports to Malaysia. He said the ministry is prepared to open talks with Malaysian authorities to find a joint resolution after Malaysia raised questions about the sanitary measures applied to Thai shrimp. The Department of Fisheries has fully responded, and there are positive signs of acceptance, even though Malaysia declined negotiations scheduled for 8 June 2026 GMT+7 and has not set a new date yet.
Mr. Suriya said that Thailand also plans to review measures for inspecting and releasing imported sea bass from Malaysia. Technology will be used to reduce inspection steps and time, aiming to satisfy both sides. The goal is to achieve a win-win outcome where both parties benefit rather than one side losing out.
"Regarding the shrimp issue between Thailand and Malaysia, I believe retaliatory actions back and forth do not benefit either side. We should instead come together to discuss and find a joint, win-win solution. If Thailand signals to Malaysia its readiness to negotiate and resolve this long-standing problem, it will benefit both countries. Trade is not a zero-sum game where one side must lose for the other to gain," said Mr. Suriya. .
Mr. Suriya added that if talks at the departmental level fail to make progress or reach agreement, he may send a letter to Malaysia’s Minister of Agriculture to arrange ministerial-level negotiations to resolve the issue. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives plans to consult with the Thai Shrimp Association to gather suggestions for sustainable development of the shrimp industry. He emphasized that the government is committed to supporting the private sector to enhance competitiveness, which will lead to economic growth for the country.