The department of veterinary services said it had finalised the export protocol inspection, quarantine and hygiene requirements for edible bird’s nests with China’s customs department on Jan 15.

It said this followed several consultations with the Chinese customs department and engagements with industry players to ensure the protocol met international standards and could be adhered to by stakeholders.

“The resumption of exports will benefit Malaysian bird’s nest ranchers, processors and exporters. A total of RM90 million worth of Malaysian bird’s nest products are expected to be exported in the near future,” it said in a statement.

China had halted the import of bird’s nest products from Malaysia following reports of a spread of the viral avian virus, Newcastle disease, among chickens and ducks here.

The suspension led to 1.76 metric tonnes of bird’s nest consignments, worth an estimated RM7.23 million, exported by 13 firms having clearance issues in China.