Hainan durians a wake-up call for Thai growers and exporters

Thai durian exporters to China have been warned not to be complacent as China has started cultivating “Hainan durians”, priced at 300 baht (S$11) for 0.5kg, with significant growth potential.

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The Thailand Office of Trade Promotion in Xiamen, China, said that China was able to produce Hainan durians, which are considered a major success for the Chinese durian industry. Thai exporters should seek ways to improve the quality and freshness of Thai durians to maintain their high standing in both the Chinese and global markets, the office advised.

According to a report from China News Service, China has been growing durians extensively in areas like Sanya and Yucai, both in Hainan. The durians have been growing well, reaching the size of volleyballs. The first batch from Hainan is expected to hit the market by late June. In 2024, approximately 500 trees have started yielding the fruit, the report said.

Hainan durians have reportedly been under cultivation for four years, and 2024 marks the first season of yields. A four-year-old durian tree can produce up to 19 fruits, each weighing around 2kg.

The harvesting season for Hainan durians spans June to August, with peak harvest expected in July.