Thailand has exported more than 1.11 million tonnes of durians so far this year, surpassing last year's total despite higher production, transport costs and intensifying competition.
Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun said Thailand exported 1,110,655.92 tonnes of durians in 68,044 containers, generating more than 127 billion baht in revenue between Jan 1 and Aug 4.
Thailand exported 979,045 tonnes of durians in 2025, worth US$4.36 billion, or about 125 billion baht. The Commerce Ministry forecasts durian production at around two million tonnes this year, up 33% from last year.
Ms Suphajee said Thailand had maintained its export momentum despite rising supplies, higher shipping costs linked to international conflicts and stronger competition from neighbouring countries.
She attributed the growth partly to efforts to streamline customs procedures and improve transport. Greater use of rail services and the border crossing in Nong Khai has provided additional logistics options, while advance market planning has helped match supply with demand, she said.
The ministry is also promoting durian processing to ease pressure on prices when supplies exceed domestic and overseas demand. It is encouraging producers to develop processed products based on market demand rather than producing goods without confirmed markets. Durian peels are also being turned into organic fertiliser as part of efforts to reduce waste.
Ms Suphajee said 70–80% of the southern durian crop had now entered the market. The ministry aims to support domestic sales and exports through the end of the season and bring about 300,000 tonnes of southern durians to market. Over 200,000 tonnes have already been handled, helping to stabilise prices.
"In the longer term, we need to strengthen the system through market-led production, fruit calendars, processing and better use of surplus," she said.
