Preparations for a durian trade “boom” are already underway at MASkargo, as it transported the inaugural shipment of frozen whole Malaysian durian to China this week.
China and Malaysia signed a protocol at the end of May to allow frozen whole Malaysian durian to be exported. Previously, Malaysia was restricted to exporting frozen durian pulp and puree to China.
Jason Thomas, chief commercial officer of MASkargo, said in a statement the development was a great opportunity for the company to expand its business.
“The boom in durian export follows the deregulation by China, which now allows whole durians from Malaysia to be imported,” Thomas said.
“The fruits are a big hit in China and we are happy to be part of this demand. From the acceptance at our perishable centre, these fruits are kept fresh in our cold rooms before being shipped in the temperature-controlled Envirotainers.”
Thomas explained the company will work with operations at both ends of the supply chain to ensure efficiency.
“We are working very closely with the Malaysian Quarantine & Special Services Department (MAQIS) to ensure that all the stringent export requirements are met and will be putting in more efforts to the smooth operations of these shipments, as we are expecting more durians coming through our flights to China,” Thomas said.
“At the same time, strong collaborations are in place with the ground handlers in China for seamless operations there too.”
