Chinese demand drives boom in Thai fruit production

Thailand is the world’s largest producer of tropical fruits, with China its largest export destination. Thailand also imports large quantities of temperate fruits from China. Data from 2017 show that Thailand’s fruit production was worth US$3.3 billion, while total exports reached US$1.2 billion. Its main exported fruit products are durian (41%), longan (21%) and mangosteen (12%). Good transport networks have allowed a booming trade to develop between the two countries in recent years.

Thailand is also one of the world’s largest pineapple producers, accounting for one fifth of global production, exported as fresh fruit and canned goods. Thai pineapple is available all year round, growing best in sandy soil. In recent years, Thailand’s small pineapple has become very popular in China. Thailand is also the world’s largest producer and exporter of durian. Its major varieties are MonThong, KanYao, Kradum and Chani. Durian is a more pricey fruit with a high sugar content.