China bans longan imports from Thailand

China has imposed an indefinite ban on longan imports from Thailand after discovering mealybugs in a shipment. The Bangkok Post reported that the ban began on 13 August, although Thailand was in contact with China to try and postpone the ban given it was implemented at such short notice. Between 70 and 80% of all Thai longan exports are destined for China. 

According to the Phnom Penh Post, the decision also has repercussions for Cambodia’s longan industry, which exports much of its fruit via Thailand. Hean Vannhorn, secretary of state of Cambodia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, said:

“Thailand will beyond a doubt stop buying Pailin longan from Cambodia, which it had typically bought to repackage for export to China.”