Our commitment to keeping you updated on the evolving shrimp market takes us deep into the current affairs impacting the trade these days. As the situation unfolds with the sulfur dioxide scrutiny in China, the absence of an official statement from the Chinese government has heightened the air of uncertainty.
Conversations with various dispatchers and clients across Chinese cities have yet to paint a clearer picture. A circulating list in Ecuador categorizes factories into those blocked and those on alert. However, this list doesn’t seem to be mirrored on the Chinese side, suggesting it may be an intergovernmental document not disclosed to the public.
Despite the lack of formal communication, changes are palpable in China. Customs across various ports have been instructed to increase their watch on this issue. Our understanding of the current protocol is as follows:
- If an exporter has previously been found exceeding sulfur dioxide limits, each of their containers must undergo inspection.
- For exporters with no past issues, inspections are carried out randomly.
In recent conversations with dispatchers and clients across various Chinese ports, we’ve noted a pattern that signals an increase in regulatory activity. Some ports have initiated phone calls to dispatchers, asking about the expected volume of shrimp imports for March. This outreach hints at a gearing up for an extensive rollout of sulfur dioxide tests next month, with a spotlight on Ecuadorian shrimp shipments.
While imports from other origins aren’t exempt from review, our findings suggest a targeted intensification of inspections on Ecuadorian imports.
In response to the increased scrutiny, certain ports have introduced a declaration form for importers. This document, affirming adherence to the prescribed sulfite levels, could streamline the import process, potentially allowing for a bypass of testing. It’s crucial to understand that this adjustment is specifically designed for shipments destined for further processing once they enter the country.