Strong rise in Thailand’s durian exports 

Despite the ongoing disruptions to global trade, Thailand’s durian exports rose by over a quarter increased by over a quarter in the first three months of 2020 to US$264 million, according to data published by Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce. The main market by far is China, with shipments up 90% to US$176m. Indeed, China now accounts for almost 67% of all Thailand’s durian exports.  Shipments to the US were also up 12% to US$2.1m. Meanwhile, the country’s exports to Asian neighbours Vietnam (-35%), Hong Kong (-11%) and Taiwan (-4%) all dropped, to US$47 million, US$42 million and US$839,400 respectively.

The remarkable growth in exports to China is largely the result of promotions conducted by Chinese retailers and the expansion of sales via online channels.