Market
Fresh apricot in Malaysia is a niche, import-supplied market segment rather than a domestically produced staple. UN Comtrade data (via WITS) show Malaysia imported US$480.73k (112,169 kg) of fresh apricots (HS 080910) in 2024, supplied mainly by Turkey and Australia. Market access is shaped by plant quarantine controls administered through MAQIS/DOA import permitting and phytosanitary documentation, with point-of-entry inspection. Food safety control for imported foods is enforced by the Ministry of Health under the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985, including risk-based entry controls via FoSIM.
Market RoleNet importer
Domestic RoleImport-dependent consumer market segment supplied by fresh-fruit imports
Market GrowthMixed (2022–2024 import trend (UN Comtrade HS 080910))imports increased from 2022 to 2023 and eased in 2024
Risks
Phytosanitary HighFresh apricot consignments can be delayed, rejected, or subjected to enforcement action if MAQIS/DOA import permitting and phytosanitary documentation or inspection outcomes do not meet Malaysia’s plant quarantine requirements (including pest/soil freedom).Confirm commodity- and origin-specific import protocol before shipment; secure required MAQIS import permit (where applicable) and ensure the phytosanitary certificate and shipment documents match the consignment details exactly.
Food Safety MediumImported fruits are subject to MOH food safety controls under the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985; FoSIM risk-based inspection can trigger sampling, detention, and non-release if food safety requirements are not met.Implement a pre-shipment residue and contaminant compliance program aligned with Malaysia Food Regulations and Codex reference points used in regulatory practice; maintain complete traceability records for rapid response to inspection queries.
Logistics MediumFresh apricots are quality-sensitive in transit; inspection holds or documentation issues at entry points can amplify shelf-life losses and commercial claims risk in Malaysia’s small-volume import segment.Plan for inspection time at arrival, use protective packaging and robust cold-chain SOPs, and align delivery windows with retailer/wholesaler receiving capacity to reduce dwell time.
FAQ
Which countries supply most of Malaysia’s fresh apricot imports?Turkey and Australia are the dominant suppliers. In 2024, Malaysia imported US$480.73k (112,169 kg) of fresh apricots (HS 080910), with Turkey and Australia accounting for most of the value and volume.
What documents are commonly needed to clear a fresh apricot shipment into Malaysia?For plant quarantine control, MAQIS may require an import permit and a phytosanitary certificate, and MAQIS also cites supporting documents such as Customs Form K1, the commercial invoice, and the bill of lading/airway bill for entry inspection and release. Imported foods are also controlled at entry points by the Ministry of Health through FoSIM under the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985.
Does Malaysia’s Approved Permit (AP) quota system apply to fresh apricots?MAQIS describes AP quota controls as applying to five listed commodities (round cabbage, old coconut, liquid milk, chicken, and rice). Fresh apricots are not part of that AP list, but importers should still check whether a MAQIS import permit and phytosanitary documentation are required for the specific apricot origin and shipment form.