June 25, 2025 | Bangkok Post|
Cambodia has launched its first direct air shipment of durians to China, marking the start of a dedicated fresh fruit air corridor between the two nations. The two-tonne cargo reached Henan Province within four hours using cold chain logistics, ensuring freshness for Chinese consumers. Durian is now the fifth Cambodian fruit approved for China, after bananas, mangoes, longans, and coconuts, reflecting growing agricultural trade and smoother customs processes.
Cambodia cultivates durians across 11,000 hectares, producing over 120,000 tons annually. However, industry insiders note that its small scale and high prices make Cambodian durians less competitive against Thailand and Vietnam, the dominant suppliers. For now, the move is viewed more as a diplomatic gesture than a commercial breakthrough.
China remains the world’s largest durian market, though imports dropped nearly 15% in the first half of 2025, partly due to stricter inspections after heavy metals were found in Thai and Vietnamese shipments. Vietnam saw the steepest decline. Traders expect Vietnamese imports to rebound in the coming peak season, but prices are unlikely to reach past highs due to abundant supply. Meanwhile, cautious Chinese consumers are reducing fruit purchases amid tighter household budgets.
