Malaysia Tightens Import Controls on Five Thai Shrimp Species

Malaysia Tightens Import Controls on Five Thai Shrimp Species

KUALA LUMPUR, May 30, 2026 — Malaysia will introduce stricter import controls on five species of shrimp originating from Thailand beginning June 1, as part of efforts to strengthen national food safety standards and quality assurance measures.

According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the new requirements will apply to five shrimp species commonly imported from Thailand: brown tiger shrimp (Penaeus esculentes), banana shrimp (Fenneropenaeus merguiensis), white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei), giant tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon), and blue shrimp (Penaeus stylirostris).

The ministry said the measures are intended to enhance oversight of imported seafood products and ensure compliance with Malaysia’s food safety and quality standards.

Malaysian authorities stressed that the move is part of broader efforts to strengthen national food security controls and safeguard consumers by ensuring imported seafood products meet established regulatory requirements.

Under the new framework, imported shrimp shipments from Thailand are expected to undergo stricter monitoring and compliance procedures before entering the Malaysian market.

The announcement was reported by Malaysian newspaper The Star, which said the tighter controls will take effect nationwide from June 1.

The latest measure comes as countries across the region continue to strengthen food safety regulations and increase oversight of agricultural and seafood imports amid growing consumer demand for higher quality and traceable food products.