Malaysia and China have signed a new protocol for the export of Edible Bird’s Nest (EBN), strengthening agricultural trade ties between the two countries.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu said the protocol replaced the 2012 and 2016 agreements and restored China’s confidence in Malaysia’s food safety and regulatory system.
He said Malaysia remained the first ASEAN country to be allowed to export raw, clean and unclean bird’s nests to China.
According to him, EBN exports were previously suspended until the end of 2024 due to concerns over bird disease despite no cases being detected among local swiftlets.
The suspension ended in January this year after technical and scientific negotiations between the two countries and exports were allowed again.
Mohamad said the new protocol guaranteed long-term market access for the EBN industry, which is worth between RM2 billion and RM2.2 billion per year.
He said exports to China alone now reach RM1.5 billion per year.
The MyWalet system, which monitors over 15,000 swiftlet houses, ensures compliance with industry quality standards and transparency.
He explained that this collaboration benefits thousands of industry players and workers nationwide.
Malaysia and China are also holding talks to open up more export channels including aquaculture products, poultry and animal feed.
