Thailand is set to introduce legislation aimed at regulating the export of young durians, ensuring only the highest quality fruit reaches international markets, notably China, where demand for durians is on the rise. With competitors emerging within ASEAN and China itself, Thailand aims to sustain its leading position in durian exports by focusing on quality and market expansion. The Thai government aspires to reach 1 trillion baht from durian exports in the future.
In a Cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on April 9, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives was tasked to draft regulations to set standards for durians, targeting the prevention of immature fruit exports. These standards necessitate that processing and packaging facilities obtain certification and adhere to specific criteria, including a minimum dry weight percentage in the durian flesh: 32% for Monthong and Chang varieties, and 28% for Kradum.
This regulatory framework, effective one year from the announcement, is designed to curb the sale of unripe durians and standardize the quality of Thai durian exports. According to Prime Minister's Office spokesman Chai Wacharonke, this move will bolster Thailand's competitiveness in the global market. Thailand, a major durian exporter, produced 900,000 tons of durians last year, with the bulk of its production destined for the Chinese market. With durian consumption in China expected to surge, Thailand anticipates a significant increase in export value, potentially reaching 1 trillion baht.
[ 10 baht = €0.26 ]
Source: nationthailand.com
Photo source: Dreamstime.com