On 8 August, Cambodia successfully exported its first batch of fresh durians to China by air, with around two tonnes of the prized fruit arriving in Henan Province. This milestone represents a significant step in Cambodia’s efforts to promote its high-quality agricultural produce in the Chinese market and will invigorate agricultural cooperation between the two countries.
Efficient Air Transport Ensures Freshness
Pich Sophoanith, Cambodia’s Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, highlighted that air shipment is an effective way to preserve the freshness of durians, with the four-hour flight ensuring optimal quality upon arrival.
He also thanked Cambodia Angkor Air for their efficient logistics support, and predicted a steady increase in air exports as demand from Chinese importers grows.
Expanding Agricultural Trade
Cambodia has recently received official approval from China’s General Administration of Customs to export fresh durians directly to the Chinese market. This makes durian the seventh Cambodian agricultural product permitted for direct export to China, after rice, cassava, corn, bananas, mangoes, longan and pepper.
Growing Industry Potential
Data shows that Cambodia’s durian cultivation area has reached approximately 11,000 hectares, with over 7,000 hectares ready for harvest. Annual production is estimated at 120,000 tonnes.
In order to support the growth of the industry, the Cambodian Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is developing policies to enhance production standardisation, expand international markets and ensure the sustainable development of the durian sector.
This breakthrough in durian exports highlights Cambodia’s growing importance as a supplier of high-quality tropical fruit to China and strengthens the two countries’ trade ties.
