Thai Dried Fruits See Surging Popularity in China, Driving Market Expansion

The growing popularity of Thai dried fruits in China has significantly contributed to market expansion, fueled by increasing consumer demand for healthier snack options. Chinese consumers are drawn to the unique flavors, high quality, and nutritional benefits of Thai dried fruits, such as mangoes, durians, and longans. This surge in demand has encouraged Thai exporters to strengthen their presence in the Chinese market, leveraging e-commerce platforms, trade fairs, and strategic partnerships with local distributors.

Key Takeways

• Demand for Thai dried and preserved fruits is increasing in China, offering opportunities for export growth. Consumers trust the quality of Thai products and innovative processing methods, supporting Thai government export policies. The dried fruit market in China was valued at 146 billion yuan in 2023, with projections reaching 335 billion yuan by 2028.
• Health-conscious Chinese consumers, prioritizing nutrition and ingredient transparency, prefer low-sugar, additive-free options. Online shopping is the primary purchasing channel, with 81.4% of consumers buying online. Physical stores remain strong, with 77.6% of consumers still purchasing there, despite the rise of e-commerce.
• In 2024, Thailand was China’s leading supplier of dried fruits, with imports valued at 4.3 billion baht, a 10.22% increase. Major e-commerce platforms like Taobao and Jingdong drive sales. Establishing online storefronts on these platforms offers strategic growth opportunities for Thai dried fruit producers in the Chinese market.

The demand for Thai dried and preserved fruits is surging in China, offering promising prospects for export growth. Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukool Pruksanusak highlighted that Chinese consumers have a growing preference for Thai dried fruit products due to their quality and innovative processing, which align with Thailand’s agricultural export policies.

According to iiMedia Research, China’s dried fruit market was valued at 146 billion yuan (720 billion baht) in 2023, reflecting a 32.6% rise, with projections suggesting it could grow to 335 billion yuan (1.75 trillion baht) by 2028. The demand is fuelled by health-conscious consumers, with 82% prioritizing nutrition and 80.6% transparency, favoring low-sugar, additive-free, and low-calorie options. Online shopping dominates consumer behavior, as 81.4% purchase online and 77.6% still visit physical stores. Between January and October 2024, China’s imports of Thai dried fruits reached 125.64 million US Dollars (4.3 billion baht), up by 10.22%. E-commerce giants like Taobao and Tmall present key opportunities for Thai producers.

Additionally, the rise of social media and influencer marketing in China has played a vital role in promoting Thai dried fruits as trendy and desirable products. With the shift towards premium and organic food items, Thai producers are also focusing on innovation, offering sugar-free or naturally processed options to cater to health-conscious buyers.As trade relations between Thailand and China continue to grow, the dried fruit sector is poised for further success. This trend not only boosts Thailand’s agricultural exports but also fosters cultural exchange, as Chinese consumers develop a greater appreciation for Thai flavors and traditions.