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Tag: exports

  • EU Warns Pakistan That GSP Plus Benefits Cannot Be Taken for Granted

    EU Warns Pakistan That GSP Plus Benefits Cannot Be Taken for Granted

    The European Union has warned Pakistan that trade preferences under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus cannot be taken for granted as the current framework expires at the end of this year.

    EU Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis told Dawn that Islamabad must address compliance issues under 27 international conventions before reapplying for the successor regime ahead of the Dec 31, 2028 transition deadline.

    Tariff Exposure for Apparel Suppliers

    European buyers take roughly 28 per cent of Pakistan’s total exports. Nearly 90 per cent of those shipments qualify for duty relief under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus framework, known as GSP Plus.

    Textile and apparel factories generate between 70 per cent and 76 per cent of sales to the European market. Leather goods, processed foods, and beverages also rely on zero-tariff access. Without it, local producers struggle against rivals in South and Southeast Asia.

    Pakistan has held GSP Plus status since 2014. The current regulation expires at the end of this year, but existing beneficiaries receive a transition window running until December 31, 2028. European officials stress that the transition does not guarantee automatic inclusion in the next cycle.

    The situation is not certain. And, of course, GSP+ preferences cannot be taken for granted.

    New Benchmarks and Regional Competition

    For European fashion brands and sourcing heads, losing preferential tariffs on Pakistani cotton and knitwear would shift costs overnight. Standard tariffs would add immediate import duties on garments. That would wipe out margins against competitors in Bangladesh, India, and Vietnam.

    Brussels has stripped trade perks before. Sri Lanka lost its GSP Plus standing in 2010 over human rights issues, forcing clothing exporters there to renegotiate pricing across European retail accounts. Pakistan faces partial or full suspension during the transition window if regulators find compliance failures.

    Stricter Conditions for Islamabad

    A European Commission review covering the 2023 to 2025 period cited compliance problems in Pakistan, noting regression on forced labour, judicial independence, and civil rights. Outgoing Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that the report understates the country’s reform progress across international treaties.

    The successor framework expands qualifying criteria from 27 international conventions to 32. Islamabad has ratified the five additional treaties. Still, European monitors require a detailed action plan with verified metrics before granting approval under the new system.

    Formal European Commission monitoring reviews will run ahead of the December 31, 2028 transition deadline. Those findings will determine whether Pakistani garment manufacturers retain zero-tariff access to European ports.

  • Bangladesh Plans New Effluent Plant to Protect $5 Billion Leather Export Target

    Bangladesh Plans New Effluent Plant to Protect $5 Billion Leather Export Target

    Bangladesh will build a new central effluent treatment plant at the Savar tannery estate to protect its target of reaching $5 billion in leather and footwear exports by 2030.

    The existing facility processes between 14,000 and 18,000 cubic metres of liquid waste a day, well below its designed capacity of 25,000 cubic metres. Volumes surge to 45,000 cubic metres daily during peak slaughter periods such as Eid-ul-Azha, overwhelming the site and blocking factories from securing international environmental certifications.

    Overhauling the Savar Estate

    Commerce and Industry Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir said the government will select a private operator through an open tender to construct and run the replacement facility. Larger tanneries will receive financial and technical backing to build individual treatment units, while non-compliant operators will receive assisted exit packages to leave the cluster. Tanneries that stay must secure certification from the Leather Working Group.

    Infrastructure bottlenecks extend beyond liquid waste. Bay Group Managing Director Ziaur Rahman reported spending nearly Tk30 million on solid-waste handling last year alone, citing unresolved gas shortages and unpaved roads across the estate. Bangladesh shipped $1.76 billion worth of leather goods and footwear across 105 markets last year, yet roughly 65 per cent of leather leaves the country as crust leather rather than finished consumer merchandise.

    Cutting Red Tape for Footwear Makers

    Footwear manufacturers are pushing to diversify beyond raw hides. Non-leather shoes now generate 31 per cent of the sector’s export revenue, but Bangladesh controls less than 0.5 per cent of global trade in the category. The Footwear Leathergoods and Accessories Exporters Association estimates that lifting that share to 5 per cent would add $3.5 billion in export value.

    Across Southeast Asia, rival manufacturing hubs have pulled ahead by streamlining factory setup and clearing environmental hurdles. Vietnam requires four compliance documents for footwear exporters, whereas Bangladeshi manufacturers must navigate 23 separate licences and 190 administrative filings, according to trade group data. That administrative drag slows foreign joint ventures and leaves machinery import permits stalled for months.

    Government negotiators are preparing bilateral talks with Japan to widen tariff concessions on finished leather items before Bangladesh loses its least developed country trade preferences.

  • Geely Prepares North American Push as Canadian Tariffs Drop to 6 per Cent

    Geely Prepares North American Push as Canadian Tariffs Drop to 6 per Cent

    Geely plans to enter North America under a Canadian trade arrangement permitting up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles annually at a reduced 6 per cent tariff. The agreement cuts duties from a previous 100 per cent rate, creating an entry point into the broader North American market.

    Assembly takes place at Geely’s factory in Ningbo, where production lines for its luxury electric marque Zeekr run at 99 per cent automation using artificial intelligence and robotic machinery. Zhao Chunlin, vice president of manufacturing and a former General Motors executive, oversees the plant. Zhao confirmed the group eventually aims to sell and manufacture Geely-branded vehicles in the United States.

    Exporting the Zeekr 9X

    The company is broadening its export operations across multiple regions this month. Geely begins shipments of its flagship Zeekr 9X hybrid SUV to dealerships across Europe and the Middle East. The vehicle achieves a range of 745 miles on a single charge and fueling cycle, includes automated self-parking software, and retails for approximately $70,000. That price tag is roughly half the cost of competing full-size luxury SUVs built by legacy American and European rivals.

    Automation on the Ningbo line

    High levels of factory automation allow Chinese automakers to sustain vehicle margins even when entering highly competitive export markets. Geely’s push into Canada and Europe mirrors similar export campaigns by domestic peers such as BYD and SAIC Motor, which have turned to foreign dealerships as price competition intensifies across mainland China.

    Initial shipments for Europe and the Middle East depart Chinese ports this month, while the first batch of Canadian vehicle imports will determine how quickly North American buyers adopt Chinese luxury electric models.

  • South Korea Exports Hit Record 709.4 Billion Dollars Year to Date

    South Korea Exports Hit Record 709.4 Billion Dollars Year to Date

    South Korea’s exports reached 709.4 billion dollars year to date, breaking the nation’s previous full-year record months ahead of schedule. Outbound trade surpassed the total volume recorded across the whole of the prior year, according to data released by the customs office in Seoul on Saturday, September 5.

    Record Outbound Shipments

    Customs authorities confirmed the milestone as cross-border shipments cleared major domestic terminals, including Pyeongtaek port. The rapid accumulation of trade value puts outbound volume well ahead of typical seasonal delivery cycles.

    Strong shipment volumes from South Korea offer clear insight into regional manufacturing activity and commercial freight movement. As a key supplier of finished goods and critical components to global retailers and technology companies, the country’s export pace reflects sustained international purchasing appetite.

    Trade Trajectory

    Export momentum heading into the fourth quarter establishes an unprecedented baseline for the economy’s external trade balance. Market analysts and logistics planners are tracking upcoming monthly customs reports to see whether shipment velocity holds steady through the close of December.

  • Lark Distilling Sales Rise 15% to $18 Million on Asia and Travel Retail Push

    Lark Distilling Sales Rise 15% to $18 Million on Asia and Travel Retail Push

    Tasmanian single malt whisky maker Lark Distilling Co lifted annual net sales 15.1 per cent to $18 million for the year ended June 30.

    Export expansion and global travel retail channels drove the performance, offsetting softer broader consumer spending in mature domestic bottle shops.

    Export Demand Drives Gains

    International sales jumped 69 per cent to $1.8 million during the 12-month period. Global travel retail delivered $2.2 million in sales, representing an increase of 43 per cent over the prior year.

    Lark now distributes its spirits across 10 Asian markets. Regional airport duty-free counters and specialty spirits retailers served as the primary entry points for the Tasmanian brand as it built overseas distribution volume.

    Regional Premium Spirits Shift

    Australian craft distillers are increasingly targeting Asia-Pacific travel corridors to find higher margin buyers for aged stock. Demand for premium brown spirits across North and Southeast Asia has created an opening for niche single malts outside traditional Scottish and Japanese categories.

    Distributors will track whether Lark can sustain double-digit overseas momentum as additional export inventory arrives across its newer Asian accounts in the coming quarters.

  • Bank of Korea Projected to Lift 2026 Economic Growth Estimate Past 3%

    Bank of Korea Projected to Lift 2026 Economic Growth Estimate Past 3%

    The Bank of Korea is expected to raise South Korea’s 2026 economic growth forecast above 3 per cent from 2.6 per cent.

    Surging semiconductor exports and recovering domestic consumption are driving private analyst projections as high as 3.4 per cent. Economic forecasters surveyed by Yonhap News Agency anticipate the central bank will adjust its outlook upward during its upcoming revision cycle, reflecting stronger factory output and higher state spending supported by rising tax receipts.

    Semiconductor Supercycle Drives Upward Revisions

    Nomura Securities posted the highest forecast among respondents at 3.4 per cent. Park Jeong-woo, an economist at Nomura, noted that exponential growth in artificial intelligence inference workloads continues to outpace chip production, suggesting supply constraints could extend beyond 2027.

    Korea Investment & Securities analyst Ahn Jae-kyun projected 3.2 per cent annual growth, pointing to a combination of heavy technology exports and a rebound in local consumer demand. Other respondents placed their 2026 projections between 3.1 per cent and 3.2 per cent. Projections for 2027 moderated, landing between 2.2 per cent and 2.8 per cent across the surveyed institutions.

    Some analysts urged caution regarding the duration of the current technology cycle. Joo Won, deputy director of economic research at Hyundai Research Institute, noted that chip exports dipped in August compared to the prior month, suggesting the export boom may reach its peak between late 2026 and early 2027.

    Surplus Records and Consumer Price Pressures

    South Korea’s current account surplus for the first six months of 2026 has already surpassed the 2025 full-year record of $191 billion. Economists expect the central bank to sharply increase its previous $250 billion annual surplus projection published in May.

    For consumer-facing businesses across the region, a stronger macroeconomic baseline in South Korea provides welcome support for retail footfall and high-ticket consumer electronics, though imported inflation limits purchasing power. Central banks across East Asia face similar cross-currents as artificial intelligence hardware spending lifts headline industrial figures while currency volatility keeps domestic borrowing costs elevated.

    Economists expect the Bank of Korea to hold its 2026 consumer price inflation projection at 2.7 per cent, with elevated oil prices and the won-dollar exchange rate serving as the main hurdles to earlier interest rate cuts.

  • Cambodia Boosts Food Safety and Export Potential with Singaporean Partnership

    Cambodia Boosts Food Safety and Export Potential with Singaporean Partnership

    Phnom Penh is taking significant steps to elevate its food safety and processing capabilities through a new collaborative training initiative. The Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI) in Cambodia, in partnership with the Embassy of Singapore, has commenced a five-day program designed to improve food safety, boost agro-processing, and help Cambodian businesses produce export-ready, high-quality goods.

    This initiative, held at the Cambodia-Singapore Cooperation Centre, provides specialized training for Cambodian officials. The curriculum focuses on essential areas such as food safety management, preservation techniques, value addition, and sustainable production practices, aiming to strengthen the country’s food sector from farm to market.

    Strengthening Consumer Trust And Market Competitiveness

    Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Hem Vanndy emphasized that robust food safety systems are vital for protecting public health and fostering consumer confidence. Such improvements also play a crucial role in enhancing the competitiveness of both industrial players and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the market. Vanndy noted that investing in food safety safeguards consumer well-being today and bolsters Cambodia’s long-term reputation and economic future.

    The minister highlighted key priorities, including reducing post-harvest losses, adopting modern processing and packaging technologies, adhering to international standards, and promoting resource-efficient production methods. These efforts are expected to support Cambodia’s economic transition from basic production towards higher-value manufacturing, opening new avenues for local producers to reach regional and international consumers.

    A New Phase of Bilateral Cooperation

    Steven Pang Chee Wee, the Ambassador of Singapore to Cambodia, stated that this training program was developed specifically to address MISTI’s priorities, marking a new chapter in bilateral capacity-building cooperation. This marks the first customized course under the Singapore Cooperation Programme to be hosted at the Cambodia-Singapore Cooperation Centre, setting a precedent for future tailored collaborations between the two nations.

    The ambassador acknowledged Cambodia’s abundant agricultural output, noting that it presents considerable opportunities for increased value creation through enhanced processing, preservation, and food safety protocols. The course also supports MISTI’s broader objective of strengthening Cambodia’s National Quality Infrastructure, encompassing standards, metrology, accreditation, and laboratory testing. This systematic approach will help local micro, small, and medium enterprises improve product quality, enabling them to better access regional and international markets. The Cambodia-Singapore Cooperation Centre, established in 2002 and upgraded in 2018, has already provided capacity-building programs to over 19,000 Cambodian government officials, underscoring the long-standing partnership.

    RetailNews Asia notes that improving food safety and processing capabilities is a common strategy across Southeast Asia to boost agricultural exports and strengthen domestic consumer confidence. Similar initiatives have been seen in Vietnam and Thailand, where robust standards are essential for tapping into high-value markets. For retailers and F&B businesses operating in Cambodia, this move promises a more reliable supply chain of locally sourced, higher-quality products, potentially reducing import reliance and supporting local producers.

  • Vietnam’s Pepper Exports Soar Past $1B in First 7 Months, Up 10.1% YoY

    Vietnam’s Pepper Exports Soar Past $1B in First 7 Months, Up 10.1% YoY

    In the first seven months of this year, Vietnam experienced a significant boost in its pepper export industry, achieving a total value of US$1.08 billion, which reflects a 10.1% increase from the same period last year. According to data from the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association, the quantity of exported pepper reached a total of 168,429 tonnes, marking a 16.1% growth year-on-year.

    Global Markets for Vietnamese Pepper

    Asia continued to be the leading buyer of Vietnamese pepper, with imports totalling 76,845 tonnes. This figure represents a 12.3% increase from the previous year and accounts for 45.6% of Vietnam’s total pepper exports. Meanwhile, exports to America surged by 34% to 45,470 tonnes, and exports to Europe grew by 7.5%, reaching 36,140 tonnes. Africa also saw a 10% rise in imports, with a total of 9,964 tonnes.

    Within these regions, the U.S. remained the largest single market, with imports totalling 40,712 tonnes, reflecting a 31.8% increase year-on-year. Following closely behind, China imported 17,110 tonnes, marking a notable 55.8% growth. Other significant importers included the Netherlands and Thailand, which imported 6,136 tonnes and 6,913 tonnes, respectively. However, not all markets showed growth; exports to Germany and India declined by 18.1% and 26.4% respectively.

    On the other hand, Vietnam’s pepper imports reached a total of 48,812 tonnes, valued at $279.3 million. This represents a substantial increase of 55.1% in volume and 43% in value compared to the previous year. The leading supplier was Cambodia, which accounted for a staggering 52.1% of all inbound pepper, with imports increasing by 256.9% to a total of 25,413 tonnes.

    Vietnamese Pepper Industry’s Future Outlook

    Le Viet Anh, chairman of the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association, anticipates that pepper prices will remain stable in the foreseeable future, assuming there are no major geopolitical disruptions. Despite facing increasing competition for land and stringent regulations, particularly the European Union Deforestation Regulation, the Vietnamese pepper industry remains optimistic.

    The association has suggested that the industry should shift its focus from expanding production to enhancing the quality, branding, and value addition of its products. In response to this, companies are being encouraged to increase investments in certified raw materials, strengthen collaborations with farmers, improve pesticide residue controls, enhance traceability systems, and fulfil all technical standards required by importing markets.

    Moreover, embracing sustainable practices such as regenerative agriculture, circular economy models, lower carbon emissions, and smarter water usage is recommended. These measures align with the rising trend of green consumption and can contribute to the industry’s resilience and future success.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the total value of Vietnam’s exported pepper in the first seven months of this year?
    The total value was US$1.08 billion, a 10.1% increase from the same period last year.

    Which countries are the largest importers of Vietnamese pepper?
    The U.S. and China are the largest importers, with the U.S. importing 40,712 tonnes and China importing 17,110 tonnes in the first seven months of this year.

    What future strategies are being proposed for the Vietnamese pepper industry?
    The Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association recommends enhancing the quality and branding of products, improving controls and traceability systems, fulfilling importing market standards, and embracing sustainable practices.

  • Vietnams Textile and Garment Exports Soar to $27B in First Seven Months

    Vietnams Textile and Garment Exports Soar to $27B in First Seven Months

    In July, Vietnam experienced a significant boost in its textile and garment exports, with an estimated total worth of US$4.7 billion. This figure represents a 4.3% increase compared to the same period in the previous year, per official data. The notable July performance contributed to a total export turnover of $27.02 billion for the first seven months of the year, a 2.7% increase year on year. This growth indicates the industry’s ability to secure orders, expand markets, and enhance production, ensuring Vietnam’s strong presence on the global export map.

    Details of July’s Export Performance

    Apparel exports for July alone are estimated to be around $3.74 billion, an 8.9% increase month on month and a 2.1% increase year on year. The total amount of apparel shipments from January to July reached $21.13 billion, a modest increase of 0.70% compared to the same period in 2025.

    During the first seven months, a noteworthy area was the substantial growth of upstream products and garment inputs. Fiber and yarn exports brought in an estimated $2.730 billion, a year-on-year increase of 11.34%. Textile and garment accessories saw an 11.18% increase, contributing $929 million to export revenue.

    Fabric exports in July were valued at $1.763 billion, a 9.57% increase, while non-woven fabric exports amounted to $471 million, a 6.56% year-on-year increase.

    Vietnam’s Textile Imports and Future Outlook

    In July, Vietnam’s textile and garment imports hit $2.231 billion, a decrease of 6% from June, but an 8.0% increase year on year. For the first seven months of the year, imports totaled $15.255 billion, a 3.27% year-on-year increase.

    Fabric imports made up $8.936 billion of the total imports, a 2.08% increase; textile and garment accessories amounted to $2.605 billion, a 3.60% increase; and cotton imports stood at $1.885 billion, a 1.02% increase.

    Looking to the future, it’s important to note that major import markets are focusing more on sustainable development, raw material traceability, carbon emission reductions, and social responsibility. Vietnamese enterprises have been more proactive in the supply chain and are less dependent on imported raw materials, as evidenced by the strong growth in fiber, fabric, and accessory exports over the past seven months.

    To keep growing and reach their annual targets, companies are advised to embrace green transition, invest in energy-efficient technologies, tap into niche markets, and fully utilize incentives built into free trade agreements.

    In order to maintain growth through 2026, experts recommend that companies stay informed about international trade policy changes, particularly strict European regulations related to the circular textile and garment economy. Creating environmentally friendly fashion items, using recycled fibers, and meeting environmental standards will be key to gaining better access to premium market segments.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the total export turnover for the first seven months of the year?
    The total export turnover for the first seven months of the year was $27.02 billion.

    What contributed to the significant growth of Vietnam’s upstream products and garment inputs?
    The growth can be attributed to Vietnamese enterprises becoming more proactive in the supply chain and reducing their dependence on imported raw materials.

    What strategies are recommended for Vietnamese companies to maintain growth through 2026?
    Companies are advised to stay informed about international trade policies, create environmentally friendly fashion items, use recycled fibers, and meet environmental standards. They should also invest in energy-efficient technologies and diversify into niche markets.

  • Vietnam’s Durian Exports Skyrocket, Dominating Chinas Fruit Imports with Room for Growth

    Vietnam’s Durian Exports Skyrocket, Dominating Chinas Fruit Imports with Room for Growth

    In the first half of 2026, China increased its durian imports from Vietnam by 43%, reaching a sum of US$988 million. With a promising harvest, this robust growth is anticipated to persist. The General Department of Customs reported that durian represented over 48% of Vietnam’s fruit and vegetable exports to China. While exports of coconuts saw close to a double increase, exports of dragon fruit, bananas, and mangoes experienced a decrease.

    Future Prospects for Durian Exports

    Dang Phuc Nguyen, the Secretary General of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, expects the surge of durian export growth to continue into the second half of the year. As the Central Highlands, the largest durian-growing region in the country, recently commenced its peak harvest season, Nguyen predicts that if the current pace of exports persists, durian export growth in 2026 could surpass the 20% rate seen in the previous year.

    The scope of durian exports has begun to broaden beyond China. As of July, fresh Vietnamese durian was granted import approval by India, introducing a new market comprised of a population exceeding 1.4 billion. However, Nguyen cautioned that a sizable population does not necessarily guarantee immediate high sales. As durian is still relatively unknown to the majority of Indian consumers, time would be required for adjustments in dietary preferences and the establishment of distribution systems.

    Nguyen suggested that initial demand for durian could be seen in major cities, imported-fruit stores, luxury retail chains, hotels, restaurants, and e-commerce platforms. He also indicated that exporters from Vietnam might find it useful to test the market using frozen, dried, or processed products. This strategy could alleviate the pressure to sell fresh fruit during the peak harvest season.

    In the first half of the year, China’s total imports of Vietnamese fruits and vegetables were valued at $2.04 billion, marking an increase of nearly 25%.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the growth rate of China’s durian imports from Vietnam in the first half of 2026?
    China’s durian imports from Vietnam increased by 43% in the first half of 2026.

    What is the potential for Vietnamese durian in the Indian market?
    While India has approved the import of Vietnamese durian, widespread success in the market will depend on the adaptation of eating habits and development of distribution systems. Initial demand is expected in major cities, premium retail outlets, hotels, restaurants, and e-commerce platforms.

    How might Vietnamese exporters approach the new Indian market?
    Vietnamese exporters could test the market by introducing frozen, dried, or processed durian products. This move could also relieve the pressure to sell fresh durian during the peak harvest season.

  • Boost for Vietnam Durian Exports as India Welcomes the King of Fruits

    Boost for Vietnam Durian Exports as India Welcomes the King of Fruits

    India recently greenlit fresh durian imports from Vietnam. This move gives exporters the opportunity to tap into a market boasting 1.47 billion consumers, and also offers them an alternative to their traditional target destinations. The decision to include Vietnam in its list of approved countries came in mid-July, as announced by the Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection.

    There are no special import conditions or further phytosanitary declaration requirements imposed by Indian authorities. This comes in the aftermath of successful negotiations between the two nations. However, the department points out that India is still a fresh market. In the preliminary phase, it is expected that Vietnamese durian will predominantly be sold in major cities, through high-end retail chains, eateries, hotels, and online commerce platforms.

    The department has therefore urged exporters to thoroughly research consumer preferences in India, product specifications, transportation logistics, and distribution networks to craft suitable market entry strategies.

    Impact on Vietnamese Durian Exports

    At the beginning of this year, there was a drastic decrease in durian exports to China, Vietnam’s primary market. This was a result of Chinese authorities intensifying quality control measures and traceability requirements, as well as escalating inspections for chemical residue. Many shipments encountered delays due to extended customs procedures, leading to a significant drop in farm gate prices in Vietnam.

    This situation occurred during the peak harvest period, leading to an abrupt increase in the supply of the fruit. The first half of this year saw a rise by 12.7% in output, the highest among any major fruit, totaling 603,300 metric tons.

    Despite the price pressures in China, their main market, Vietnam’s durian exports are projected to exceed $2 billion by the end of July, as reported by the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the potential impact of India approving durian imports from Vietnam?
    The approval opens up a new market of 1.47 billion people for Vietnamese durian exporters, potentially reducing their dependence on traditional export destinations.

    What is the current state of Vietnam’s durian exports?
    Despite stricter quality controls and traceability measures in China, durian exports from Vietnam are projected to surpass $2 billion by the end of July.

    What advice has been given to Vietnamese durian exporters with regard to the Indian market?
    The Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection has advised exporters to study consumer preferences in India, product specifications, transportation logistics, and distribution networks to formulate suitable market entry strategies.

  • Thai Gem and Jewelry Industry Shines in China: New Deal to Skyrocket Exports

    Thai Gem and Jewelry Industry Shines in China: New Deal to Skyrocket Exports

    The Gem and Jewellery Institute of Thailand (GIT) has formalized a strategic partnership with two prominent Shanghai-based firms with the aim of bolstering Thai gem and jewellery enterprises’ market penetration in China. The collaborations have been established with the Shanghai Jing’an Real Estate Group Import and Export Co. and the China Gems & Jade Exchange. Their collective goal is to establish industry standards, streamline market access, fortify trade connections, and heighten the competitiveness of Thai gemstone and jewellery enterprises.

    Looking into the Collaboration

    As part of this alliance, GIT will contribute its technical proficiency, establish product standardization, and offer quality assurance services. It will also aid in bridging the gap between Thai businesses and prospective associates. On the other hand, the Chinese collaborators will provide critical insights into import regulations, guide through customs procedures, offer bonded warehouse services, handle logistics, arrange product exhibitions, and create business opportunities within the Chinese market.

    The importance of China as a primary market for Thailand’s gemstone and jewellery industry has been recognized by GIT. It anticipates that this reinforced collaboration with Chinese partners will allow Thai businesses to penetrate the market more efficiently while fostering bilateral cooperation in the sector.

    Aligning with SMART JEWELER Program

    This move is in line with the objectives of the SMART JEWELER scheme by GIT. The program is designed to enhance the competitiveness of players in the industry. This is achieved through brand development, fostering design innovation, analyzing consumer trends, and creating international business networks.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the primary objective of the collaboration between GIT and the two Shanghai firms?
    The aim is to establish industry standards, streamline market access, fortify trade connections, and heighten the competitiveness of Thai gemstone and jewellery enterprises in the Chinese market.

    How will GIT contribute to this collaboration?
    GIT will offer its technical expertise, establish product standardization, and provide quality assurance services, along with connecting Thai businesses with potential partners.

    What role will the Chinese partners play in this collaboration?
    The Chinese partners will offer insights into import regulations, guide through customs procedures, provide bonded warehouse services, manage logistics, and arrange product exhibitions, creating business opportunities within the Chinese market.

  • Riding the Durian Express: Cambodia Boosts Exports to China with 5,700 Tons of Fresh Fruit

    Riding the Durian Express: Cambodia Boosts Exports to China with 5,700 Tons of Fresh Fruit

    In the first seven months of 2026, Cambodia managed to export a significant amount of fresh durians to China. Specifically, 5,738 metric tons of the fruit were exported, largely due to improvements in overland logistics. This advancement has been credited to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, with the undersecretary of state, Khim Finan, highlighting the opening of a new overland route from Cambodia to China via Laos as a key factor.

    Boosting Trade via Overland Route

    The implementation of this new land route has not only opened fresh avenues of trade but also significantly reduced transit times. As Mr. Finan pointed out, the duration has been slashed from 15-20 days by sea to just 5 days overland. This route was officially inaugurated in late June and serves as a convenient channel for transporting a range of Cambodian agricultural products to China.

    The list of approved commodities for transport through this route includes bananas, mangoes, rice, Pailin longan, cassava starch, and durian. Each of these products has received official approval for shipment, boosting Cambodia’s export potential.

    Chinese Market’s Fondness for Durian

    China holds the distinction of being the world’s largest market for durian. In the previous year, China purchased an impressive 1.87 million tons of the fruit, amounting to a total worth of US$7.49 billion.

    The first half of this year has already seen an import of 1.07 million tons. Thailand remains the largest supplier, accounting for 81% of the total durian delivered to China. Vietnam follows close behind, contributing 18% to the supplies, while the remaining stocks are provided by Malaysia and the Philippines.

    Cambodia’s fresh durian exports to China have been on a sharp incline since July of the previous year. This was when the first shipment was sent after Chinese authorities granted approval to over 100 durian farms and 30 packaging facilities in Cambodia.

    Durian is the fifth fresh fruit from Cambodia to be given direct access to the Chinese market. It joined the ranks of bananas, mangoes, longans, and coconuts that have been enjoying this privilege.

    It was reported that Cambodia has more than 11,000 hectares devoted to durian cultivation, which yields an estimated 120,000 tons of the fruit annually.

    Questions & Answers

    What led to Cambodia’s significant export of fresh durians to China?
    The exports were largely facilitated by the opening of a new overland route from Cambodia to China through Laos, reducing transit times considerably.

    What are the other agricultural products Cambodia exports to China via this route?
    In addition to durian, Cambodia also exports bananas, mangoes, rice, Pailin longan, and cassava starch to China through this route.

    What is the significance of durian in the Chinese market?
    China is the world’s largest market for durian, having purchased 1.87 million tons of the fruit worth US$7.49 billion in the previous year.

  • Vietnam Customs Expedite Clearance for Durian, Other Ag Exports: A Boost for Border Trade

    Vietnam Customs Expedite Clearance for Durian, Other Ag Exports: A Boost for Border Trade

    In a bid to streamline border operations and facilitate smoother trade of agricultural goods, particularly durian exports, Vietnam’s Department of Customs has instructed its local sub-departments to hasten customs clearance processes at border checkpoints.

    This directive, which was issued recently, calls for the regional customs branches to provide maximum assistance and ensure same-day clearance of exported agricultural, forestry, and fishery products. This is to be implemented even outside standard operational hours. Furthermore, the order advised the appointment of officers to oversee export shipments and handle customs procedures, even during off-hours, such as evenings, weekends, and public holidays.

    Sub-departments have been directed to swiftly resolve any issues that may arise during customs clearance. Should the situation exceed their jurisdiction, they are to promptly refer the matter to the department for further guidance.

    Cooperation and Coordination

    The directive also emphasized the need for collaboration with warehouse and storage operators at border gates. This collaboration is essential to ensure the availability of proper facilities for the storage and sorting of goods awaiting export. This measure will help maintain the quality of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products.

    Regular updates regarding the progress of agricultural, forestry, and fishery exports are required, along with offering timely information and advice to exporters using local border gates. Coordination with relevant authorities is needed to control traffic and prevent congestion that could disrupt customs clearance.

    Constant dialogue is also critical with customs authorities at corresponding Chinese border gates. This is to ensure the swift resolution of issues that may arise during customs clearance, as well as keeping Vietnamese exporters abreast of any changes to China’s customs management and inspection policies for compliance assurance.

    For shipments that have exited Vietnam but are denied entry into China, customs authorities have been asked to prioritize and expedite re-import procedures based on the request of enterprises.

    The department has also explicitly forbidden any acts of obstruction, harassment, or unnecessary delays in customs clearance, which could escalate costs and result in losses for businesses.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main aim of the directive issued by Vietnam’s Department of Customs?
    The aim is to expedite customs clearance at border gates for agricultural exports, particularly durian shipments, and to ensure smooth trade operations.

    How will the regional customs sub-departments facilitate this process?
    They are instructed to provide maximum assistance, ensure same-day clearance of exports, resolve issues promptly, and maintain regular communication with corresponding Chinese border gates.

    What measures are being taken to prevent potential issues during customs clearance?
    The sub-departments must coordinate with warehouse and storage operators at border gates for appropriate facilities, provide regular updates, inform exporters of changes in China’s customs policies, and prioritize re-import procedures for rejected consignments.

  • Vietnam’s Coffee Exports Hit $4.78B Despite Challenges: A Closer Look at H1 2026 Results

    Vietnam’s Coffee Exports Hit $4.78B Despite Challenges: A Closer Look at H1 2026 Results

    In the first half of 2026, Vietnam’s coffee exports amounted to US$4.78 billion, marking a decrease of 14.4% compared to the same period in the previous year. This decline in value comes despite a 9.7% year-on-year increase in exported volume, reaching 1.1 million metric tons. June alone accounted for shipments of 150,000 tons, valued at $552.6 million.

    Coffee Export Market Dynamics

    The average coffee export price during the first half of the year was around $4,435 per ton, a 22% year-on-year decrease after a period of elevated prices in 2024-25, as reported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. The three largest markets for Vietnam’s coffee exports remained Germany, Italy, and the U.S., accounting for 14.1%, 7.9% and 6.9% of total exports, respectively. However, the first five months of the year saw a decline in shipments to these markets by 21.7%, 9.6% and 2.2% in value respectively, compared to the previous year.
    On the other hand, exports to China experienced a significant 70.7% surge in value, representing the strongest growth among the top fifteen importers of Vietnamese coffee.

    Domestic Coffee Market and Global Trends

    Domestically, coffee prices have rebounded to over VND90,000 (US$3.42) per kilogram, but trading remains cautious as the remaining inventory is limited. The Vietnam Coffee Cocoa Association indicates that the global coffee market is moving into a challenging phase where supply growth, largely driven by Brazil, is outpacing moderate consumption growth.

    Moreover, the association predicts that the large supply will continue to put downward pressure on prices in the coming months, particularly in the Robusta segment, which is Vietnam’s principal export product. This situation poses a challenge to achieving the year’s export revenue target due to the continuous fall in export prices and the historically lower shipments in the second half of the year.

    However, the association also highlights an opportunity for the industry to shift its focus from increasing output to enhancing value. This can be done by exporting higher quality coffee beans with sustainability certifications, and increasing exports of roasted, instant, and blended coffee products. Currently, around 30% of Vietnam’s coffee-growing area is certified under sustainable production standards, which provides a strong basis for meeting the increasingly rigorous requirements in export markets.

    In addition to this, the association recommends stronger trade promotion in promising markets such as China, Russia, South Korea, Algeria, and Nordic countries. It also encourages expanding connections with major retail chains in Asia and Europe to foster processed coffee exports.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the current state of Vietnam’s coffee exports?
    The value of coffee exports from Vietnam declined by 14.4% in the first half of 2026 despite an increase in export volume.

    Who are the major importers of Vietnamese coffee?
    Germany, Italy, and the U.S. are the three largest markets for Vietnam’s coffee exports, but exports to these markets have declined in value. Alternatively, exports to China have surged by 70.7%.

    What adjustments does the Vietnam Coffee Cocoa Association suggest for the coffee industry?
    The association suggests a shift in focus from output expansion to value enhancement. This could be achieved by increasing exports of sustainably certified, high-quality coffee beans and boosting shipments of roasted, instant, and blended coffee products.