Government Boosts Confidence in Durian Exports, Emphasizes Quality and Market Growth

Govt Strengthens Confidence in Durian Exports, Focuses on Quality and Market ExpansionThe government has announced a renewed commitment to boosting durian exports by prioritizing quality assurance and exploring untapped international markets. Leveraging advanced agricultural techniques and stringent quality control measures, authorities aim to position locally grown durians as premium products on the global stage.

Efforts are also underway to establish stronger trade partnerships and streamline export regulations, ensuring a smoother path for growers and exporters. By fostering collaboration between farmers, exporters, and trade officials, the initiative seeks to enhance the industry’s competitiveness while meeting the rising global demand for the “king of fruits.”

Key Takeways

• Thailand is addressing concerns about chemical contamination in durians and collaborating with Chinese authorities to streamline import inspections. With a 37% expected rise in durian output, Thai officials are implementing measures to stabilize the market and maintain pricing consistency as the harvest season begins.
• Minister Pichai plans to invite Chinese officials to inspect local farms to ensure quality controls and facilitate faster inspections, reducing spoilage risks. Thailand is also targeting new export markets, including the U.S., EU, and India, aiming for significant sales growth and further trade discussions.
• Efforts are underway to register Thai durian as a Geographical Indication (GI) product, highlighting its unique quality and enhancing its global reputation. The Thai government seeks to position its durian as the world’s finest, capitalizing on its nutritional value and premium status.

Thailand is actively addressing concerns about the safety and quality of its durian exports, particularly to China. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan reassured global markets by stating that Thailand has tackled the BY2 chemical contamination issue in durians, collaborating with Chinese authorities to improve import inspection processes. At a Chanthaburi meeting, Pichai, alongside Governor Monsit Pisanthanawat and other officials, discussed strategies to ensure high-quality durian production as the May harvest season approaches.

With a projected 37% increase in durian output to 1.76 million tons, the Ministry of Commerce has rolled out seven measures to stabilize the market and maintain price consistency. To enhance credibility, the Minister plans to invite Chinese officials to inspect Thai durian farms, demonstrating stringent quality controls. Improved inspection procedures with China, focusing on random sampling, aim to reduce delays and spoilage. Thailand is also expanding export markets to the U.S., EU, and India, expecting 950,000 tons in sales, exceeding 10 billion baht. Additionally, efforts are underway to register Thai durian as a Geographical Indication (GI) product, enhancing its global reputation.

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