Cambodia Launches First-Ever Durian Export to China: A Landmark in Agricultural Trade

Cambodia has marked a historic milestone with the successful export of its first container of fresh durian to China, symbolizing a new chapter in the diversification and expansion of its agricultural exports.

This landmark shipment of approximately 17 tonnes, facilitated by HF Fruit Ltd. in partnership with Chinese stakeholders, represents Cambodia’s determined stride into one of the most coveted fruit markets globally.

The Journey to Market Access

Cambodia's journey towards this achievement began with the negotiation and signing of a bilateral phytosanitary protocol in April 2025, allowing direct export of Cambodian durian to China. Following rigorous evaluation, China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC) approved 112 durian plantations and 30 packing facilities as compliant with Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), phytosanitary, and food safety standards required to enter Chinese markets.

This approval followed the inclusion of fresh durian on the list of Cambodian fruits authorized to enter China, joining bananas, mangoes, longans, and coconuts. The success reflects growing cooperation between Cambodia and China and highlights Cambodia’s rising reputation for high-quality agricultural products.

Economic and Agricultural Significance

Durian cultivation in Cambodia covers an estimated 5,289 hectares nationwide, with 3,403 hectares actively harvested, generating approximately 36,656 tonnes annually. The province of Thbong Khmum is a key contributor, with 950 hectares dedicated to durian cultivation, underscoring its strategic role in the country’s durian supply chain.

Previously, durians from Thbong Khmum and other provinces mainly found markets in Vietnam and Thailand. Access to China, however, presents a promising new opportunity for local farmers to achieve better prices and increased export volumes. Cambodian Minister of Agriculture Veng Sakhon had previously stressed the crop’s high economic potential, while emphasizing the need for sophisticated cultivation and quality control to meet international standards.

HF Fruit Ltd., which began operations in Thbong Khmum on May 1, has played a pivotal role in this initial export. The company collaborates directly with local farmers, sourcing fruit to ensure quality and scale, with plans to export tens of tonnes in the near future.

Challenges and Prospects

Despite this breakthrough, Cambodian durian exporters face challenges, including maintaining consistent quality, flavor enhancement, cost-effective production, and compliance with stringent export protocols. Khim Bunlene, from the King Durian Farm Community in Kampot province, cautioned that Cambodian durians must compete on taste, safety, and price to sustain their foothold in the Chinese market.

The Ministry of Agriculture has urged all approved orchards and packing facilities to strictly adhere to guidelines forbidding harmful substances, pesticides, and banned chemicals, thereby safeguarding food safety and consumer confidence abroad. Additionally, other durian farms and packers are encouraged to seek certification to join the export supply chain, broadening Cambodia’s export capacity.

Regional Impact and Future Outlook

Cambodia’s durian export authorization to China symbolizes a significant breakthrough in agricultural trade relations, marking the ninth Cambodian agricultural product approved for direct Chinese export. This diversification bolsters Cambodia's export portfolio and strengthens bilateral economic ties with China, which is one of the largest and most lucrative fruit markets worldwide.

Areas suitable for durian cultivation extend beyond Thbong Khmum to Kampot, Kampong Cham, Ratanakiri, Mondulkiri, Battambang, Pursat, Koh Kong, and Kampong Thom provinces, underscoring the fruit’s potential as a regional economic driver. Growing demand from China may incentivize investment in improved cultivation techniques, disease control, and processing methods that align with Cambodia Good Agricultural Practices (CamGAP), enhancing both yield and quality.

The inaugural shipment of Cambodian durian to China is more than a commercial success; it is a symbol of Cambodia’s evolving agricultural capabilities and expanding ties with major global markets. As Cambodian farmers and exporters gain experience and scale, the “King of Fruits” export could become a keystone of rural economic development and international trade. With strategic government support and adherence to rigorous quality standards, Cambodia is poised to transform this tender fruit into a robust source of national prosperity.

This historic export event today sends a clear message: Cambodia’s durian is ready to take its rightful place on the world stage. The sweet smell of success, indeed, signals bright prospects ahead.