Thailand expands banana exports to Japan under new trade arrangement

Thailand is accelerating its agricultural export strategy by boosting Cavendish banana shipments to Japan under the Japan–Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA).

Deputy Commerce Minister Suchart Chomklin shared the update on July 18 in Nonthaburi, highlighting early success in Nakhon Ratchasima’s Soeng Sang district, where farmers have increased income by 4% to 14% by aligning production with Japanese demand.

Currently, Thailand exports about 2,000 metric tons of Cavendish bananas to Japan annually — just a quarter of the 8,000-ton quota allowed under JTEPA.

To close the gap, a new export arrangement involving local partners has been established to raise Cavendish banana shipments to Japan to 5,000 tons, with an estimated value of over 50 million baht (approx. $1.7 million USD). Over 100 farmers have joined the effort, implementing GAP and GMP standards to meet export-quality requirements.

Support from the Department of Internal Trade includes expert guidance, post-harvest inspections, export-grade packaging, and the distribution of 128,000 banana plantlets across 400 rai (about 158 acres), all tailored to Japanese preferences.

Cavendish bananas offer strong export potential thanks to their high yield, long shelf life, and disease resistance. Participating farmers stand to earn up to 18,000 baht per rai (approx. $612 USD) — or 7.2 million baht (approx. $245,000 USD) across large-scale operations.

Should export volumes near the current quota limit, Thai officials are ready to negotiate for an increased allocation, aiming to unlock broader income opportunities and long-term export growth.

source: pattayamail.com

photo: en.moneyandbanking.co.th