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| Durian Odyssey: LensToLens Explores the Cross-Border Journey of Southeast Asian Delights |
In Southeast Asia, the durian, often referred to as the "king of fruits," has been capturing the taste buds and hearts of Chinese consumers. This exotic fruit is gaining popularity, thanks to its unique flavor and luscious texture. What's even more enticing is the recent drop in durian prices, making it accessible to a wider audience of enthusiasts.
Several factors contribute to this favorable shift. Firstly, abundant durian harvests in Southeast Asian nations have resulted in increased supply, which in turn has led to more competitive pricing. Moreover, the tariff-free policies and expanded market access facilitated by the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) have played a pivotal role in making durians more affordable.
The Ministry of Commerce of Thailand reports that in 2022, China became the largest export market for Thai durians, accounting for a staggering 96 percent of total exports and a total value of $3.09 billion USD.
Vietnamese durians, known for their extended harvest season and lower prices, also found their way into the Chinese market in 2022 through the RCEP framework. This move resulted in a significant boost for Vietnam's economy, with over $500 million USD earned from durian exports in the first five months of the year, an impressive 18-fold increase compared to the previous year. During this period, Vietnam exported more than 65,000 tonnes of durians, with China purchasing a whopping 97 percent of the total shipment.
The province of Guangxi in China has been at the forefront of this durian boom. In the first five months of the year, Guangxi recorded an impressive 194 percent year-on-year increase, importing fruits worth 3.66 billion yuan from ASEAN countries. Most notably, durian imports saw a remarkable surge of 516 percent compared to the same period in the previous year, according to customs data.
The rise of the "king of fruits" has become a symbol of the flourishing partnership between China and ASEAN countries, highlighting China's vast market potential. As we anticipate the further strengthening of cooperation between China and ASEAN nations, it's evident that more high-quality fruits from ASEAN countries will be readily available to Chinese consumers at increasingly affordable prices. This promising trend heralds a bright future for durian enthusiasts and the fruit's industry as a whole.
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