Business
China Scraps Health Declaration Requirement for All Travelers from November 1
China has lifted all COVID-19 travel requirements, including the need to fill out a health declaration form. Travelers should still report symptoms voluntarily, however.
Travelers leaving and entering China are no longer required to fill in the China health declaration form, meaning that China has now lifted all travel requirements related to COVID-19. Travelers should still voluntarily report themselves to Customs staff if they have symptoms or have been diagnosed with an infectious disease.
China’s General Administration of Customs (“Customs”) has announced that, as of Wednesday, November 1, 2023, it will no longer require people leaving and entering China to fill in the Entry/Exit Health Declaration Card (“Health Declaration Card”). This card was implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic to screen travelers for symptoms of COVID-19 by asking them to fill out a survey on their current health conditions and symptoms. The system then generated a QR code that travelers had to show to Customs staff when leaving or entering the country.
The removal of the Health Declaration Card requirement means that China has now lifted all COVID-era restrictions and requirements for travelers leaving and entering the country. This move could help to encourage more international travel to and from China, and will further improve the travel experience for passengers.
Existing regulations on declaring possible symptoms of infectious disease when traveling will still be in place, as we discuss below.
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China Briefing is written and produced by Dezan Shira & Associates. The practice assists foreign investors into China and has done since 1992 through offices in Beijing, Tianjin, Dalian, Qingdao, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Suzhou, Guangzhou, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. Please contact the firm for assistance in China at china@dezshira.com.
Business
EU’s Solar Initiatives in Southeast Asia Impacted by US-China Trade Tensions
中国拥有的太阳能公司在东南亚，尤其是泰国、越南、马来西亚和柬埔寨，正面临潜在的挑战和机遇。
Challenges for Chinese Solar Companies in Southeast Asia
Chinese-owned solar companies in Southeast Asia, especially in Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia, are encountering significant challenges. These nations are becoming crucial markets for solar energy; however, increased competition and regulatory hurdles are complicating their operations.
Regulatory Hurdles
Many Southeast Asian governments are implementing stricter regulations for foreign investments in renewable energy sectors. This development may hinder Chinese companies’ ability to navigate local laws and establish a strong foothold in these growing markets.
Market Competition
Beyond regulatory challenges, the competition among local and international solar companies is intensifying. To succeed, Chinese firms must innovate and adapt their strategies to meet regional demands while maintaining cost-effectiveness and securing partnerships with local entities.
Source : EU’s solar plans in SE Asia caught in US-China trade war
Business
Malaysia Launches ‘Luxury’ Durian Exports to China as Indonesia Eyes Market Opportunities
Malaysia has begun exporting fresh durian to China, targeting high-end consumers with 40 tonnes shipped in phases. China, the largest durian buyer, may eventually import from Indonesia pending compliance with standards.
Malaysia’s Fresh Durian Shipment to China
Malaysia has successfully sent its first shipment of fresh durians to China, aiming to capture the interest of a market largely supplied by Thailand and Vietnam. This shipment includes 40 tonnes released in three phases, as announced by Deputy Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup. China represents the world’s largest durian importer, having purchased 1.4 million tonnes last year, with a significant portion sourced from Thailand.
Emphasis on Quality
Malaysian exporters, having met China’s phytosanitary requirements, are focusing on the quality of their products rather than sheer volume. Lim Chin Khee from the Durian Academy states that Malaysian durians are considered luxury items, targeting high-end consumers. The first shipment of 20 tonnes has already reached the Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport, fetching prices that can reach 200 yuan (approximately $28) per fruit.
Indonesia’s Durian Prospects
Indonesia is also exploring opportunities in the Chinese durian market, with discussions surrounding compliance to China’s phytosanitary standards ongoing. As reported, Indonesian officials are eager to establish a protocol that could facilitate durian exports, considering the strong demand in China. Lynn Song from ING emphasizes that should these negotiations succeed, Indonesian durians could effectively carve a niche in the burgeoning market.
Source : Malaysia starts ‘luxury’ durian exports to China as Indonesia sniffs the market
Business
Vietnam’s Exports of Fruits and Vegetables to Thailand Surge by 70%
Thailand has become Vietnam’s fourth largest fruit and vegetable market, with exports rising significantly, particularly in durians, as Thailand faces supply shortages due to droughts.
Growth in Bilateral Trade
Thailand has risen to become Vietnam’s fourth-largest market for fruits and vegetables, according to recent customs data from the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association. This shift from sixth place last year is largely attributed to increased demand, particularly for frozen durian. China continues to dominate as the top buyer, importing nearly $2.5 billion worth, a 25% increase.
Rising Imports and Export Dynamics
The United States and South Korea have also contributed to this growth, with imports from Vietnam surging by 31% and 51%, totaling $189 million and $188 million, respectively. Overall, Vietnam’s exports reached an estimated $4.6 billion, a 29% increase, as the country capitalizes on year-round durian cultivation.
Changing Trade Relationships
The trade landscape between Vietnam and Thailand has transformed significantly over the past decade. Thailand, once the leading supplier of fruits and vegetables to Vietnam, saw its imports drop to just $46.5 million in 2023. However, imports have surged 35% this year, reaching $32 million, with popular items including dates and mangosteens.
Source : Vietnam fruit, vegetable exports to Thailand rise by 70% – VnExpress International
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