Thailand pushes durian sales as Malaysia’s imports plunge 37%

Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce is launching a programme to move 300,000 tonnes of southern durian after Chinese buyers temporarily halted orders over quality concerns. The plan includes advance purchases, promotional campaigns and direct‑sales outlets, aiming to stabilise prices that have fallen to 85–105 THB per kilogram for AB‑grade fruit.

In Malaysia, durian imports from Thailand fell 36.7% in the first half of 2026, dropping to 4,184.58 tons from 6,606.86 tons a year earlier. The Malaysian Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) is intervening with a seasonal‑fruit purchase programme worth about US$1.65 million and is examining a floor‑price increase for kampung durian. Officials also said the ministry is looking to export fresh Malaysian durian to China once a new customs protocol is agreed.

Both governments are seeking to balance supply and demand amid the glut caused by reduced Chinese orders and strong domestic production.