According to Thai media reports, China has slowed its durian imports following the discovery of unripe fruit among recent shipments. Resulting concerns about oversupply have led Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce to announce emergency measures to distribute around 300,000 metric tons of southern durians [3].

The Department of Internal Trade clarified that durians selling for 5 Thai baht ($0.15) per kilogram in Uttaradit are not Monthong but a smaller local variety that splits easily, has very low yield and is typically used for processing into puree. Current Monthong durian prices stand at 85–105 baht ($2.54–3.14) per kilogram for grade AB, 60–80 baht ($1.79–2.39) per kilogram for grade C and 40–55 baht ($1.20–1.64) per kilogram for grade D.

The department’s director-general, Wittayakorn Maneenetr, reports that total southern durian output has reached 752,515 metric tons, up by 30% year on year. So far, approximately 35% of the crop has been harvested, leaving 489,199 metric tons still to be absorbed. The early-season price drop is attributable to slowing demand from the Chinese market, quality issues with early-season durians entering China (including unripe fruit leading to fewer orders), competition from other export markets, and pressure from northern-grown durians in provinces such as Uttaradit, Sisaket and Nakhon Ratchasima.

In response to the falling prices, the department has stepped in to manage market purchasing, with plans to absorb around 300,000 metric tons of output: 3,700 metric tons through advance purchase contracts, 9,000 metric tons through promotional campaigns and 281,000 metric tons through distribution to markets outside the growing regions. Other measures include opening sales points and supporting logistics and durian processing. Medium-term plans include tourist-targeted durian campaigns, working with food companies and brands to develop menus, and inviting brand ambassadors to visit Chumphon, Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces.

From Jan. 1 to July 5, 2026, Thailand’s total durian exports reached 908,047 metric tons across 55,831 shipments, with the export value exceeding 104.20 billion baht ($3.12 billion).

Image: Pixabay

This article was translated from Chinese. Read the original article [4].