Thai fruit exports grow in May despite weaker agri trade

Thailand’s exports continued to grow in May 2026, supported by demand in several key markets, while fruit remained one of the positive points within a weaker agricultural export segment.

According to the Ministry of Commerce, Thailand exported goods worth USD 34.33 billion in May, up 10.6% from the same month last year. It was the country’s 23rd consecutive month of export growth.

Imports grew 35.1% to USD 40.04 billion. As a result, Thailand recorded a trade deficit of USD 5.71 billion for the month.

For January–May 2026, exports reached USD 162.09 billion, up 17.0% year on year, while imports rose 35.6% to USD 187.30 billion. The five-month trade deficit stood at USD 25.21 billion.

Fruit outperforms agri trend

Agricultural and agro-industrial exports fell 7.2% year on year in May, returning to decline after previous growth.

However, fresh, chilled, frozen and dried fruit exports increased 5.2%, marking a second month of growth. The ministry said the increase was mainly supported by shipments to China, Hong Kong and Indonesia.

Durian and rambutan were also mentioned among agricultural products that continued to grow in line with the season.

Fruit demand holds in China

Overall Thai exports to China fell 2.5% in May after growth in the previous month. Still, fresh, chilled, frozen and dried fruit were among the product groups that expanded in the Chinese market.

This keeps China important for Thai fruit exporters, even as the country’s broader export performance to the market weakened during the month.

Smaller agri categories grow

The ministry also pointed to strong growth in some smaller agricultural categories. Mung beans rose 225.4%, continuing growth for a 13th month, with China, Malaysia and Taiwan named as key markets.

Cashew nuts were also mentioned among high-potential agricultural products with continued strong growth, although their export share remains smaller than Thailand’s main export categories.

source and photo: moc.go.th