Durian, longan, and mangosteen drive Thailand’s export success

Thailand’s fruit exports saw a significant boost in 2024, reaching $6.51 billion, driven by strong international demand. Durian remained the country’s top fruit export, generating $3.79 billion, according to the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). The success of Thai fruit exports is largely due to their distinct flavors, high quality, and growing popularity in global markets, said TPSO director-general Poonpong Naiyanapakorn.

Fresh fruit made up the bulk of exports, contributing $5.15 billion. The most exported fruits included durian, longan, mangosteen, young coconut, and mango. Durian alone accounted for 72.9% of fresh fruit export revenue, with China taking 97.4% of shipments, followed by Hong Kong, South Korea, Malaysia, and the US.

Longan exports reached 527,927 tons, bringing in $571 million, with China buying the majority at 73.1%. Other key markets included Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and India. Mangosteen exports stood at 284,860 tons, valued at $491 million, with China absorbing 91% of shipments, followed by Vietnam, South Korea, the US, and the UAE.

Thailand also exported 257,428 tons of young coconuts, generating $217 million, mainly to China (82.7%), with additional shipments to the US, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Netherlands. Mango exports reached 106,753 tons, worth $33 million, with South Korea leading in imports (61.8%), followed by Malaysia, Japan, Vietnam, and Laos.

Despite Thailand’s dominance in the fresh fruit market, competition has intensified, particularly for durian, as China has expanded import approvals for Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia since 2023. Stricter import policies in China add further challenges for Thai exporters.

To strengthen its market position and reduce dependence on China, Thailand is actively working to diversify its export destinations, targeting new markets such as the US, Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK. The Commerce Ministry is also focusing on developing value-added fruit products, regulating production, and implementing strategies to maintain stable exports in a competitive market.

source: bangkokpost.com

photo: nationthailand.com