September 30, 2023 | Produce Report |
Cambodia has seen a surge in fresh longan exports to China, with 8,118 metric tons exported in the first eight months of 2023. This strong performance can be attributed to Chinese consumers recognizing the quality of Cambodian fruits. The Cambodian Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is providing support to farmers to ensure compliance with China's stringent food safety and quarantine requirements. Cambodia focuses on online channels for fruit marketing in China, actively promoting its products on e-commerce platforms like Taobao.
Transportation costs, however, remain relatively high, with freight rates around $3,400 per container through the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port and $3,100 per container through Vietnam. Negotiations are underway to regain access to Thai port facilities, which are more cost-effective at around $2,500 per container, although current restrictions prevent Cambodian longans from using Thai ports due to Thailand's own fresh longan exports. The longan season typically runs from July to May, with year-round harvests facilitated by the use of fertilizers and water management.