In a strategic move to enhance durian production, Filipino growers and orchard owners are slated for a visit to Thailand in mid-May. The visit aims at benchmarking and learning from Thai durian producers, renowned for their export-quality fruit production. Dr. Pablito Pamplona, a leading durian cultivation expert in the Philippines, highlights the timing of the visit to coincide with Thailand's durian peak season, offering a prime learning opportunity for Filipino stakeholders.
The Philippines faces a capacity challenge in meeting the burgeoning demand for durians, especially from China. Despite the Philippines' first durian shipment to China in April 2023, the country struggles to match the demand due to limited production capabilities. In 2023, Philippine durian exports to China amounted to US$1.88 million, starkly contrasted by Thailand's US$3 billion and Vietnam's US$828 million. The global market for fresh durian, poised to grow significantly, underscores the urgency for the Philippines to scale up production.
Dr. Pamplona points out the stark disparity in durian production between Thailand and the Philippines. Thailand, contributing to 32.25 percent of the world's durian production, contrasts with the Philippines' 1.98 percent share. He emphasizes the need for Filipino durian farmers to adopt more advanced technologies, akin to their Thai counterparts, to enhance production efficiency and meet the global demand.
Source: mb.com.ph