Thailand Wins Approval for 10 Labs to Test Durian Exports to China Ahead of Peak Season

In a critical move just weeks before Thailand’s durian harvest peaks, China has officially approved 10 Thai laboratories to conduct residue testing for Alkaline Yellow and Cadmium in fruits bound for the Chinese market. This approval, announced by Thailand’s Agriculture Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat on April 15, marks a breakthrough after months of bilateral negotiations.

Thailand had earlier requested that five additional labs be added to the approval list and two previously suspended labs be reinstated. Following an evaluation by Chinese customs authorities, all seven labs were greenlighted, bringing the total number of approved testing facilities to ten as of April 14, 2025.

With a surge of durians expected in late April and May, the expanded lab capacity comes just in time to ensure exports can proceed without delays. Minister Narumon expressed confidence that these facilities are now fully prepared to handle the upcoming inspection demand.

Among the approved labs are branches of Central Laboratory (Thailand) in Bangkok, Chiangmai, Songkhla, Chachoengsao, and Khon Kaen, as well as well-known international names like Bureau Veritas, Intertek, and ALS. The move is widely seen as a boost for Thailand’s fruit exporters, particularly in the competitive durian trade with China.

This approval not only paves the way for smoother shipments but also signals stronger technical collaboration between Thai regulators and Chinese authorities, reinforcing quality assurance for one of Southeast Asia’s most lucrative agricultural exports.