Brian Jeffrey
China’s Durian Imports in 2024
In 2024, China’s customs agency reported that the country imported 1.56 million tons of durian, valued at $7 billion, reflecting an increase of 9.4% in volume and 4% in value from 2023.
Changes in Import Prices
The average price per ton for durian imports fell to $4,957, representing a 4.9% decrease. Import prices varied: while prices from Vietnam and the Philippines dropped, those from Thailand rose.
Top Supply Sources for Durian
From Thailand alone, China imported 809,880 tons of durians worth $4 billion, which marked a 12.8% decline in quantity and a 12.1% drop in value. Conversely, imports from Vietnam surged; China acquired 736,720 tons, spending $2.94 billion—a significant 49.4% increase in volume and 37.5% in total value compared to the previous year.
Vietnam’s Growing Share in the Market
Vietnam remains the second-largest supplier of durians to China, capturing a 47.2% increase in volume and a 42% rise in value of its durian exports.
Export Revenue Insights
According to the General Department of Customs, Vietnam’s durian exports generated $3.21 billion in revenue, up 43.2% from 2023, almost reaching an additional $1 billion.
The ‘King of Fruits’ in Vietnam
Durian, celebrated as the ‘King of Fruits’ in Vietnam, constituted 45% of the nation’s total export earnings from fruits and vegetables in 2024.
Compliance Issues and Challenges
However, recent reports from Chinese customs indicate that some durian shipments faced issues regarding compliance with phytosanitary and food safety regulations.
Instances of fraud, where fake growing area and packing codes were used for exports, raised concerns. Tien warned that unaddressed issues could tarnish Vietnam’s agricultural reputation abroad and jeopardize its market share in China.
Increased Inspections by China
To ensure safety, China has intensified efforts to test for heavy metal residues and is now inspecting all durian imports for yellow dye.
Exporters and Food Safety Standards
While Tien acknowledged that most durian producers and exporters adhere to food safety standards, he admitted that some issues do exist. He stressed that exporters must comply with the various market standards set by the importing countries. As China remains Vietnam’s largest durian market, it is imperative for Vietnamese farmers and exporters to take necessary measures to sustain robust growth in durian exports.
