Khao Banthat Mon Thong durian has become Thailand's highest-earning Geographical Indication (GI) product, generating over 11 billion baht (about US$298 million) in revenue during the first nine months of 2025. The fruit's performance underscores durian's position as Thailand's leading agricultural export.
According to Auramon Supthaweethum, Director-General of the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP), the success of Thai GI products reflects their quality and distinct regional characteristics, which drive demand domestically and internationally. Between January and September 2025, agricultural and food products dominated the top 10 GI earners, contributing over 46 billion baht (about US$1.25 billion) to the national economy.
Durian products occupied the top three positions. Khao Banthat Mon Thong from Trat led with 11.047 billion baht (US$299 million), known for its sweet, creamy flavour and light yellow flesh. The variety is grown in the Khao Banthat mountain range, where strong sea winds stress the trees, promoting early flowering and harvest. Saded Nam durian from Yala ranked second with 6.661 billion baht (US$180 million), characterised by its dry flesh and minimal fibre, cultivated at elevations above 100 metres. Mon Thong durian from Rayong placed third with 4.886 billion baht (US$132 million), noted for its thin shell and dense, aromatic flesh.
All three varieties are heavily exported, primarily to China, which remains the largest market for Thai durian.
Auramon attributed the performance of GI products to a coordinated strategy focused on protection, market access, and value creation. GI certification ensures traceability and quality control, often resulting in price increases of two to five times for registered goods. Efforts to promote GI products include targeting high-income markets such as China, Malaysia, and Japan, developing advanced packaging, and integrating products into fine-dining and tourism sectors.
The DIP continues to advance GI registration and promotion under the Commerce Ministry's "Quick Big Win" policy. Auramon said the department aims to make the GI mark a symbol of national quality that strengthens local economies and supports farmers and small producers.
Source: Asia News Network