In previous years, the period leading up to the "May Day" holiday marked the peak season for durian arrivals and sales in China. However, this year presents a different picture. Durian arrivals were delayed, and overall supply has been limited, only gradually increasing in early May.
"The delays are due to several factors," explained Meng Chao from Xiaobaoge, an importer specializing in fruit wholesale, particularly durian. "These include delayed harvesting in Thailand's eastern production areas caused by climate conditions, extended customs clearance times due to new inspection protocols by Chinese Customs, a reduced turnover rate of shipping containers, and rising transportation costs."
Liu Baofeng, the founder of the "Xiaobaoge" brand.
According to Meng, before the May Day holiday this year, Thai Monthong durians available in the market were primarily in the 1.5–2 kg size range. Wholesale prices were about 18–20% higher compared to the same period last year. On the other hand, prices at the production sites in Thailand fell sharply due to increased output and delayed exports. In eastern Thailand, orchard purchase prices for varieties such as Chanee and Puangmanee dropped to just one-third of last year's levels, with some high-quality varieties seeing price declines of over 80%.
Despite this, production in Thailand's eastern regions is expected to increase by more than 50% this season. Thanks to strict quality control measures, the overall quality of this year's durians is considered quite good.
Meng also shared insights on changing market dynamics: "Since the start of the year, exports of durians from Thailand and Vietnam to China have been affected by Basic Yellow 2 (BY2) residue concerns. This led to a sustained decrease in durian inventory in the Chinese market, dropping to a five-year low and driving up prices. Combined with current economic factors, durian consumption is showing clear stratification."
"Value-conscious consumers tend to opt for Vietnamese Kanyao durians, which deliver on flavor while remaining affordable. Meanwhile, the maternal and infant demographic, along with the gift-giving market, prefer Thai Monthong durians for their consistent quality and widespread brand recognition. We're also seeing rising interest in smaller-sized durian varieties. These offer excellent taste but have lower flesh yield and shorter market cycles, so they require more time for consumers to become familiar with them."
On the sales front, online consumption continues to gain traction. "Social media posts and food-sharing content have become key in driving consumer interest and boosting sales," Meng said.
To meet consumer expectations for freshness, packaging innovations have been introduced this season. "End-store packaging now includes EPP insulation boxes paired with food-grade ice packs and cold-chain logistics via SF Express," Meng explained. "This enables 48-hour interprovincial delivery without compromising the flesh quality. However, ensuring freshness at scale remains a challenge in wholesale channels."
Xiaobaoge operates out of the Shouheng Market in Gaobeidian, Hebei Province. Its distribution spans wholesale markets, supermarkets, and fruit stores. The company offers a full range of mainstream durian varieties sourced from Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. "We remain committed to quality control and online brand building," Meng concluded. "Our traceability system allows customers to track product origins. On the marketing side, we'll continue to leverage social media, sharing updates on arrivals, durian facts, and varietal highlights through short videos. We also encourage all our staff to engage with online platforms to promote both themselves and the company brand."