Indonesian Durian Farmers Eye Major Growth as China Opens Its Market

Indonesian durian producers are sensing a major opportunity as access to the world’s largest durian market continues to expand. With China’s growing appetite for the fruit and deeper cooperation between the two countries, sellers in Indonesia believe they are entering a new phase of commercial potential that could reshape the industry.

In 2024, Indonesia exported around US$1.8 million worth of durian to markets such as Thailand and Hong Kong, marking a steady rise in overseas demand. This year, the country took an even bigger step by beginning shipments of fresh durians directly to China. For Indonesian growers, this shift represents more than just additional sales. It is an affirmation that their produce can stand alongside the region’s well-known suppliers and compete in one of the most valuable fruit markets in Asia.

According to the Indonesian Durian Plantation Association, this progress has been made possible through strengthened ties with China. The key turning point came when Indonesia signed a frozen durian export protocol with China’s General Administration of Customs in May of last year. The protocol set out strict safety, handling and quality requirements that exporters needed to meet in order to access the Chinese market.

Since then, eight Indonesian companies have successfully passed the verification process. This approval allows them to ship directly to China instead of going through established intermediaries in countries such as Thailand and Malaysia. Industry groups say this direct access is crucial because it reduces costs, shortens delivery times and helps Indonesian producers build their own market identity rather than remaining part of a blended regional supply chain.

For farmers, the opportunity is also emotional. Many have grown durians for generations but have faced limitations due to export rules, logistics challenges and competition from larger producers. The chance to send their fruit directly to China represents a moment of recognition that their hard work can reach global consumers.

China’s demand for durian has soared over the past decade, driven by its popularity as a delicacy and the rise of online food retail platforms. The country has become the world’s largest importer of the fruit, with younger consumers especially enthusiastic about new varieties and premium quality produce. Indonesian growers believe they can appeal to this market by highlighting their unique flavours, seasonal freshness and diverse cultivation regions.

Still, industry analysts caution that the opportunity comes with responsibilities. Exporters must maintain high standards in packaging, hygiene and cold chain logistics to ensure that the fruit arrives in ideal condition. Failure to meet these standards could slow down further approvals or damage consumer confidence. There is also growing pressure to increase production capacity without compromising on quality.

Despite these challenges, optimism remains high. The Indonesian government and industry associations are working closely to train farmers, improve facilities and expand monitoring systems to meet China’s strict requirements. If the momentum continues, Indonesia could significantly increase its market share in the coming years and establish itself as a rising force in the global durian trade.