The Ministry of Agriculture, Forests and Fisheries (MAFF) of Japan has requested Thailand to exhaust the existing import quota of 8,000 tonnes before applying for an increase. Under the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA), Thai bananas currently enjoy a tariff exemption for up to 8,000 tonnes. According to Narumon Pinyosinwat, the Thai trade representative, this quota is nearly exhausted. Once the limit is reached, Thailand can request an increase to 100,000 tonnes. Ryosuke Ogawa, the Vice-Minister for International Affairs at the MAFF, has expressed his willingness to consider this request. Narumon and her delegation recently met with Ogawa to discuss these trade issues.

Following the meeting, Narumon revealed that Ogawa had praised the flavor of several Thai fruits but has yet to taste the Hom Tong bananas. In addition to these discussions, Narumon extended an invitation to Japan to participate in the International Horticultural Expo, scheduled to be held in Udon Thani province in 2026. She urged the Japanese minister to encourage both the public and private sectors in Japan to support the expo. Lastly, Narumon expressed her gratitude to the MAFF for its decision to allow the import of Thai mangosteen without the requirement of a steaming process.