Contrary to predictions, durian prices are increasing due to heightened demand from Chinese importers in anticipation of the Chinese New Year. The price of Thai durian has risen across the board, making it a profitable crop for southern farmers. With China set to remove quarantine measures for overseas arrivivers in January and downgrade Covid-19 to a Class B infectious disease, durian exports to China are expected to face fewer hurdles next year. The Commerce Ministry estimates that 80% of the predicted 600,000 tonnes of durian produced in the South this year has already been sold.