Indonesia prepares direct durian exports to China

Indonesia is preparing to initiate direct durian exports to China, the largest global market for the fruit. Currently, Vietnam and Thailand dominate this sector. Central Sulawesi's Parigi Moutong is noted for its Monthong durians, a variety originating from Thailand. Presently, frozen Monthong durians from Indonesia reach China via Thailand.

Efforts are in progress to establish a direct export route. Chinese customs officials recently inspected Indonesian durian plantations and packing facilities to evaluate the potential for "durian export cooperation," as reported by the South China Morning Post, citing local Indonesian media.

Muhammad Tahir, director of PT Ammar Durian Indonesia, highlighted the logistical benefits of direct shipping from Pantoloan to China, reducing transit time from a month to a week and potentially halving shipping costs. The company aims to increase exports to 50 containers annually, up from 30.

However, analysts suggest that Indonesia might not immediately meet Chinese demand. Despite being among the top durian producers, with 1.83 million tons produced in 2023, most of the output is consumed domestically. Strict Chinese export regulations, including Good Agricultural, Handling, and Manufacturing Practices, pose additional challenges. Only 10% of Central Sulawesi's 30,000 hectares of durian plantations have official certification.

Logistical hurdles remain, as noted by durian expert Sigit Puruwanto, who mentioned the five-day ripening limit as a disadvantage. Indonesian officials propose initially exporting frozen durians, which are cheaper and present lower food safety risks.

The Ministry of Agriculture has identified 422 villages for durian cultivation. Central Sulawesi's governor, Rusdy Mastura, expressed commitment to seizing this export opportunity.

In 2023, China imported 15.6 million tons of durians, valued at US$6.99 billion, with Thailand and Vietnam as leading suppliers.