Browse Data and Analysis

Posts forecasts that marketing year (MY) 2022/23 rice production will increase for the third consecutive year due to available water supply and abundant precipitation. High prices of chemical fertilizers and other inputs will likely impact corn production and yield as farmers apply less chemical fertilizer this season.

On May 16, the National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) issued Decision of Board of Directors No. 6/2022 concerning the binding technical basis for maximum residue levels (MRLs) for chemical contaminants in food, made effective the day following its publication in the Egyptian Chronicles.

On December 19, 2021, Egypt’s National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) released Decision No. 10/2021, the Provisions of Recognition of the Control System Applied by the Exporting Country Competent Authorities in the Context of Imported Food Control. The decision was made effective the day following its publication in the Egyptian Chronicles – Annex 1: unofficial translation is included herein.

Rice export prices decreased 1-2 percent due to the weakening of the Thai baht.

Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) proposed revisions to Japan’s maximum residue levels for 9 agricultural chemicals (Fosthiazate, Mepanipyrim, Pyrifluquinazon, Tolclofos-methyl, Diaveridine, Glycalpyramide, Sulfathiazole, Tiopronin and Enramycin) for various agricultural commodities.

Taiwan is the third largest export market for U.S. peaches and nectarines and the fifth largest export market for U.S. cherries. In MY 2021/22, Taiwan imported 16,330 MT of fresh peaches/ nectarines and 13,851 MT of fresh cherries. The U.S. share of the import market is around 70 percent for peaches/nectarines and 42 percent for cherries.

Post forecasts Burmese rice exports lower in August due to fewer supplies in the domestic market, higher domestic prices, lower anticipated production, and changes to foreign currency policies. Domestic prices for both Emata and Shwe Bo Pawsan rose significantly.

Despite pandemic challenges China remains a prime destination for imported consumer food products. The COVID-19 pandemic changed the country's retail landscape as e-commerce companies gained ground over traditional brick-and-mortar retailers. Online platforms also extended the reach of imported products into second-and third-tier cities.

Egypt notified of new halal requirements and procedures for food products. This was disclosed via a Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) third addendum notification to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Neither the notification's commitment to the commenting period nor its entry into force date are specified.

On December 19, 2021, Egypt’s National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) released Decision No. 9/2021, Handling of Imported Food Consignments Subject to Temporary Release, made effective the day following its publication in the Egyptian Chronicles – Annex 1: unofficial translation is included herein.

This report reflects updates on the Food law in Section I, Food Labeling in Section II, and import procedures Section IX.

This report lists the major certificates required by Burmese government agencies for U.S. agricultural products exported to Burma. The list of certificates primarily focuses on major U.S. agricultural exports to Burma, such as soybeans and soybean meal, wheat products, distillers dried grains with solubles, meat and poultry products, fruits and vegetables, other grocery items, and seeds.