W8 Durian Update: Thai Durian Exports Set to Rise 4% in 2024, Premium Monthong Durian Prices Surged by 20% YoY in Tiền Giang, and Sustainable Farming Boosts Durian Production in Binh Phuoc Province

Published Mar 2, 2024

In W8 in the durian landscape, Thai durian exports are expected to increase by 4% YoY in 2024 due to a 2024 picking schedule and promotion of premium-grade cultivation. Meanwhile, Premium Monthong durian prices in Tiền Giang, Mekong Delta, surged by 20% due to a drop in grade A fruits. Lastly, sustainable farming practices and processing technology boost durian production in Bình Phước Province.

Thai Durian Export Forecast to Increase by 4% YoY in 2024

Thai authorities have established a 2024 picking schedule for eastern durians to combat premature harvesting and prevent the sale of inferior durians. The Gradoomthong durian's harvesting dates are April 15, Chanee and Puangmanee durians on May 5, and Monthong durian on May 20. These varieties' pulp percentage of dry weight should be at least 27%.

The Department of Agriculture Promotion has emphasized the importance of promoting premium-grade durian cultivation in the eastern region. Local fruit farmers must undergo testing before picking, and certificates will be issued to those who pass. The Kasikorn Research Center predicts Thai durian exports to China will total USD 4.5 billion in 2024, an increase of 12% year-on-year (YoY).

Premium Monthong Durian Prices Surge 20% in Tien Giang, Mekong Delta

The prices of Premium Monthong durian in Tiền Giang, Mekong Delta Province in Vietnam, surged by 20% to USD 8.12 per kilogram (VND 200,000/kg) due to a drop in the supply of grade A fruits. Despite offering premium prices, local durian traders are encountering difficulties in procuring a sufficient quantity of durians. Prices for Grade A Monthong stood between USD 7.71 and 8.20/kg (VND 190,000 to 202,000/kg), while grade B was slightly lower at USD 7.11/kg (VND 175,000/kg). Meanwhile, Grade A Ri 6 durian prices have decreased by 14% YoY, ranging between USD 4.87 and 5.12/kg (VND 120,000 and 126,000/kg). As Mekong Delta durian farmers prepare for the new season, the off-season supply of Monthong is nearly exhausted. The higher supply of Ri 6 durians makes them more affordable, but with increasing demand in domestic and export markets, prices for Ri 6 are expected to rise.

Innovative Farming Practices Boost Durian Production in Binh Phuoc Province

Durian farming in Bình Phước Province, Vietnam, has expanded to nearly 6 thousand hectares (ha), with farmers adopting sustainable farming methods and exporting to China. Known for pepper, cashew, and rubber, the region is now a significant durian area, with a cooperative leading exports. Farmers are innovating farming practices, creating tools such as a '5-in-1' sprayer and a grass generator, improving the health of fruit trees, and enhancing the durian value chain. Other farmers are mastering processing technology to bring durian from the garden to importers.