The Philippines will export 54,000 tons of durians to China in 2023

The Philippines is expected to export at least 54,000 tonnes of fresh durians to China in 2023, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said. Eng Seng Food Products and Belviz Farms, both based in Davao City, Philippines, are preparing to export durians to China, with Puyat, Duyaya and D101 varieties being prioritized for export.

"China is the largest market for durians and we are very excited," John Tan, CEO of Yonsheng Foods, said in a statement. "If the Chinese market opens up, we aim to export one container per week and 300-500 containers in 2023."

Emmanuel Belviz, president of Davao Durian Industry Association (DIADC) and owner of Belviz Farm, believes that Philippine durians have great potential in the export market, especially for premium varieties such as Puyat and Duyaya. DIADC is working closely with the Philippine government, especially the Department of Agriculture, to prepare the necessary documents and protocols for exporting to China. It will also help governments to help producers, especially small-scale growers, increase production and comply with export requirements. Durian is expected to become one of the Philippines' top exports within the next five years, Belviz added.

The agriculture Department said the Davao regional office is working on a five-year development plan for the durian industry, which will increase technical support to growers, enhance the supply of quality seedlings, fertilizers, pesticides and equipment, as well as establish durian processing plants that meet standards.