December 10, 2024| Applied Fruit Science |
Researchers from Universiti Malaya, Malaysia, conducted a comprehensive review to address challenges in the growing durian (Durio zibethinus L.) industry. As a high-revenue fruit native to Southeast Asia, durian is gaining global recognition for its unique taste, aroma, and nutritional value, with its market valued at USD 23.23 billion in 2022 and projected to nearly double by 2032. Despite increasing demand, the industry faces significant challenges, including yield losses, supply inconsistencies, and limited consumer awareness of durian and its by-products.
The study employed a combination of literature review, market data analysis, and farmer interviews to identify key constraints. These included reliance on traditional cultivation methods, lack of marker-assisted breeding for superior germplasm, insufficient biological control for pests and diseases, high fruit perishability, and inadequate knowledge-sharing systems.
To address these issues, the review highlights potential solutions such as mining resistant genes for molecular marker development, integrating sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies for pest and disease monitoring, improving postharvest packaging, and fostering collaborations between farmers, researchers, industry stakeholders, and governments. These insights provide a roadmap for sustainable management practices and technological advancements to support the durian industry's future growth and resilience.
