Durian pulps pictured in Sanya City, south China’s Hainan Province. Photo by AFP
A Malaysian fruit festival in Beijing, with a focus on promoting premium durians, was estimated to generate CNY3–5 million (US$416,000–693,000) in revenue for 50 exporters.
The three-day event, which concluded Sunday, served as a platform for Malaysian traders to present farm products to Chinese consumers in for the third consecutive year, according to state-owned newspaper Bernama.
The spotlight was on durian, particularly Malaysia’s renowned Musang King and Black Thorn varieties.
Over 150 kilograms of Musang King and 60 kilograms of Black Thorn durians were displayed at the event. There were also 120 kilograms of pineapples and 80 kilograms of mangosteens.
“It gives me great pleasure to see our national treasure, the durian, taking centre stage [at the event],” said Malaysian Ambassador to China Datuk Norman Muhamad.
Last year, Malaysian durian exports to China reached CNY40.17 million (US$5.5 million), he said, adding that China has remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 16 years.
“This time, we are not selling. We are here to promote, educate, and raise awareness among Chinese consumers about the uniqueness of Malaysian tropical fruits.”
Malaysia’s durian exports to China are projected to rise by 15% to 20% this year, driven by strong consumer demand, despite weather-related challenges, according to Loh Wee Keng, chairman of the Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China.
China is the largest durian market in the world with the main suppliers being Thailand and Vietnam.
Malaysia, the Philippines and Cambodia have been making moves to pump up their durian exports to China.
