China Approves Import of Fresh Jackfruit from Cambodia

The Cambodian agriculture sector has welcomed China's recent decision to permit the import of fresh jackfruit from the Kingdom. This approval was formalized on July 15, when Cambodia's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Dith Tina, signed two agreements with China's Minister of the General Administration of Customs, Sun Meijun, during a state visit to Beijing alongside Prime Minister Hun Manet.

The agreements include a Protocol on Phytosanitary Requirements for the Export of Fresh Jackfruit from Cambodia to China, as well as a memorandum of understanding (MoU) focused on cooperation in plant and animal quarantine and the import and export of safe food products. The Ministry of Agriculture described these agreements as significant achievements, reflecting the Cambodian government's proactive efforts to negotiate access to international markets and bolster confidence in the quality of its agricultural products.

Phot Saphanborey, chairman of Pechenda Fruit Production, a company involved in the purchase and packaging of various agricultural goods, expressed optimism about the prospects for Cambodian fruits in international markets, particularly in China, which is one of the largest markets globally. He noted that jackfruit is among Cambodia’s most promising agricultural products due to its relatively long shelf life. Although the area dedicated to jackfruit cultivation is smaller compared to other fruits like Pailin longan and durian, Saphanborey indicated that many companies are beginning to expand their plantations.

“Even though China has granted market access, Cambodia still has a great deal of work to do.”Phot Saphanborey, chairman of Pechenda Fruit Production

Currently, Cambodia is authorized to export several fresh fruits to China, including mangoes, bananas, Pailin longan, and durian. The Cambodian government is actively seeking market access for additional fruit varieties. However, Saphanborey cautioned that exporters face significant challenges, particularly due to a lack of modern facilities for fruit disinfection and treatment, as well as inadequate storage infrastructure. He emphasized the need for improvements in export procedures and compliance with product quality requirements, stating that even though China has granted market access, Cambodia still has a great deal of work to do.

Despite these obstacles, Saphanborey reported that several Chinese buyers have already reached out regarding the export of fresh jackfruit, indicating a growing interest in Cambodian agricultural products.