Malaysian durian exports set to grow by 25% amid strong Chinese demand

A 20-25% increase in Malaysian durian exports to China is expected this year, driven by rising demand, expanded cultivation, and improved trade relations, according to the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority.

To meet growing demand, several Malaysian states are increasing durian farming. In Kelantan, 3,000 hectares have been designated for Musang King plantations, one of the country’s most prized durian varieties.

Farmers believe that China’s recent import restrictions on fresh durians from Vietnam and Thailand will further boost demand for Malaysian durians.

Sam Tan, president of the Malaysia Durian Exporters Association, has urged the government to ban pre-cutting of durians before export to maintain their quality. He explained that farmers in Thailand and Vietnam often harvest durians before they are fully ripe for easier transportation.

In contrast, Malaysian durians ripen naturally and are collected only after falling from the tree. This chemical-free process is highly valued, especially in the Chinese market.

After signing a new export agreement in June 2024, Malaysia exported MYR24.8 million ($5.5 million) worth of fresh durian to China in just four months.

China imported a record $6.99 billion worth of durian last year, up 4.1% from 2023. Thailand remains its top supplier, followed by Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

source: vnexpress.net

photo: medium.com