Cambodia’s durian industry has recorded a dramatic surge in exports to China, with buyers increasingly turning away from Thailand in favour of Cambodian fruit.

Between January and July this year, Cambodia shipped 5,738 tonnes of fresh durian to China — nearly 40 times more than in 2025. The Ministry of Agriculture hailed the rise as a “major achievement”, crediting new trade corridors and government efforts to open markets.

On 25 July, ministry spokesperson Khim Finan oversaw the dispatch of the first overland shipment via Laos. Three containers carrying more than 50 tonnes of durian were sent to China, with the buyer pledging to import another 200 tonnes within weeks. Finan said the company had previously sourced from Thailand but switched due to Cambodia’s higher quality, competitive prices and faster transport route.

The new corridor, launched in June after bilateral talks with Laos, cuts delivery times to around five days compared with the previous 15–20. Officials say the streamlined process reduces logistical hurdles and strengthens Cambodia’s position in regional trade.

Durian is now among 17 Cambodian agricultural products approved for export to China, following protocols signed during President Xi Jinping’s state visit in 2025. Cambodia currently has more than 16,000 hectares of durian plantations, with Kampong Cham, Kampot and Pursat among the largest growing areas.

The ministry emphasised that the boom benefits the entire value chain — from farmers and orchard owners to packing houses and logistics firms. Finan urged stakeholders to maintain standards and safeguard quality to ensure the industry’s long-term success.

With China’s vast consumer market shifting its sourcing, Cambodia’s durian exports are emerging as a symbol of the country’s growing agricultural ambitions and regional integration.

-2026-07-29

Clear to see who China favours more.

Tanks for Cambodia , more fruit.

Guess Anutin's song wasn't that well received at his last visit.