The General Department of Agriculture under Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) has called upon durian plantation owners, farming communities, and operators of fresh durian processing and packaging facilities to register for export to China. This follows the signing of a protocol on Phytosanitary Requirements for Export of Fresh Durian Fruits from Cambodia to China on April 17 in Phnom Penh.
The department has issued an announcement urging those involved in the production, processing, and export of fresh durian to apply for registration. Upon receiving applications, experts will be assigned to provide technical guidance and conduct evaluations as per the protocol's procedures. "The General Department of Agriculture plans to send the list of fresh durian plantations and processing and packaging factories to the Chinese side in May 2025 for review and evaluation before official exports begin," the department stated.
The General Department of Agriculture, as the lead technical authority in phytosanitary negotiations, facilitates market access for Cambodian crops, including durian, to international markets like China. Undersecretary of State and Ministry spokesperson Khim Finan emphasized the need for farmers to submit registration applications for their farms and facilities. Experts will assess these in accordance with the protocol's technical specifications before forwarding the list to Chinese customs for final inspection.
Finan noted, "The export of swiftlet nests and fresh durians to China will begin this year. Following the signing of the protocol by Cambodian and Chinese leaders, the ministry anticipates that these exports will help expand Cambodia's agricultural market, increase farmers' incomes, and contribute to national economic growth through the agricultural sector." He added that the ministry will work closely with Chinese authorities to ensure a smooth export process.
A durian seller and grower in Kampot province, Khim Bunlene, stated, "Opening the market directly to China is the most important thing for durian growers." He highlighted benefits such as ensuring a good market and price for farmers, attracting investors, creating jobs, and generating state tax revenue.
Most durians are grown in Battambang, Kampot, Pursat, and parts of Kampong Cham, Tbong Khmum, Koh Kong, and Ratanakkiri provinces. Meanwhile, the Secretary of State for the Ministry of Agriculture, Prak David, met with a Chinese business delegation, encouraging investment in agricultural processing, packaging, marketing, and exporting.
Source: Khmer Times