Malaysia and Thailand announce they have resolved a fisheries-related trade dispute and will cooperate on a special border economic zone. The issue traces to actions taken earlier this year after food safety and related concerns. In May, Thailand restricts imports of Malaysian-caught sea bass, citing concerns about chemical residues. In response, Malaysia temporarily bans some varieties of Thai shrimp, linked to its food safety controls.
Following meetings between Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar and Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Anutin, the two sides state they agree to resolve the outstanding fisheries problem. They also say they will work on developing an economic zone along their border, framed as a step to improve cross-border trade and cooperation.
Additional reporting indicates both countries are engaging through relevant authorities to ease existing import restrictions while addressing food safety and biosecurity concerns. The announcements suggest the dispute is being managed through coordinated measures rather than continued trade barriers.
