Strict measures implemented to control imports of Chinese oranges

BANGKOK, Nov 18 (TNA) -- The Agriculture and the Customs departments will inspect more carefully on mandarin oranges imported from China in an attempt to assist local orange growers and also to prevent pests and diseases from spreading in Thailand, said Suwit Chaikiattiyos, director-general of Agriculture Department. Thailand normally import a large amount of Chinese mandarin oranges between October-March every year and they are inspected by crop inspection station at Laem Chabang Port, Mr Suwit said. Authorities at the station have several times found orange leaves and branches along with imported oranges which are against the Thai law and also the Thai-Chinese agreement, he said, adding that in order to assist local orange growers, officials at the station have mapped out plans to curb imports of Chinese mandarin oranges. From now on, every container will be jointly inspected by the station and the Customs officials and at major fruit markets in Thailand, he said. A total of 24 Thai importers have imported 9,250 tonnes of Chinese mandarin oranges valued at 277.14 million baht, from last month until now, said Mr Suwit. No irregularities were found so far. (TNA)