July 10, 2026
 

The resolution ends a months-long dispute over sea bass and shrimp restrictions that had disrupted seafood trade between the two countries.

Thailand and Malaysia have resolved a fisheries trade dispute that had restricted seafood imports between the two countries since May, with both sides agreeing the resolution will take effect within one week. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the agreement following a meeting with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in Putrajaya on 9 July 2026.

The dispute began in May when Thailand restricted imports of Malaysian-caught sea bass over concerns about chemical residues, prompting Malaysia to impose a temporary ban on several varieties of Thai shrimp over food safety concerns the following month.

Beyond the fisheries resolution, the two leaders agreed to proceed with developing a special border economic zone and to facilitate customs and immigration exchanges. They also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding on agricultural cooperation, though further details on its scope were not disclosed.

The two governments set a target of raising bilateral trade to US$30 billion in the near future, up from approximately US$25 billion last year. Other measures agreed during the talks included reopening ferry services between Satun and Kuala Perlis and integrating ticketing for the Bangkok-Hat Yai-Butterworth rail route.

- Reuters