Suriya, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, is not remaining passive after Malaysia ordered a suspension on imports of five Thai shrimp species. He is preparing to fly to negotiate with Malaysia’s Agriculture Minister, aiming to lift the suspension order, and believes the issue can be resolved at the policy level.
At 09:50 on 10 June 2026 at the Government House, Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, revealed that Malaysia’s suspension of imports of five Thai shrimp species is a matter he takes seriously. This issue arose because Malaysia imposed import measures on aquatic animals from Thailand, including testing for substances in white seabass, which affected shrimp imports. The suspension remains temporary until Malaysia completes its evaluation of Thailand’s ability to prevent and control diseases.
However, coordination has been made to request a meeting with Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, Malaysia’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, to permanently resolve the issue. He has requested a negotiation date and is ready to travel for talks upon Malaysia’s invitation. He is confident that the problem can be jointly solved and that Thai shrimp exports can resume to Malaysia.
Regarding the approach to negotiations with Malaysia to end the suspension on Thai shrimp imports, Mr. Suriya said that initially, a letter was sent to Malaysia requesting cancellation of the suspension order. Reports indicated that Malaysia had previously declined negotiations. Therefore, before traveling there for talks, he asked Malaysia’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security to instruct officials to conduct preliminary negotiations on this matter.
As for whether his personal visit to negotiate will solve the problem, Mr. Suriya stated that the matter benefits both sides. Therefore, at the policy level, it is likely to be resolved.