Cambodia's fresh durian exports to China reached 5,738 tonnes between January and July 2026, representing a nearly 40-fold increase compared to the same period in 2025. This growth is being bolstered by a strategic shift among Chinese buyers who are increasingly favoring Cambodian produce over Thai alternatives due to competitive pricing and improved quality.
A key factor in this trade expansion is the establishment of a new overland transit corridor through Laos, which was officially launched on June 22. According to Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries spokesperson Khim Finan, the new route has reduced transit times for shipments from 15–20 days down to approximately five days. On July 25, the ministry oversaw the dispatch of over 50 tonnes of durian by Pechenda Fruit Production, marking the start of a series of shipments that the buyer expects to total an additional 200 tonnes in the coming weeks.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has hailed this trend as a significant milestone for the nation's agricultural sector. Officials emphasized that the government's efforts to streamline logistics and secure new market access are providing tangible benefits to the entire supply chain, including farmers, packing houses, and logistics providers. To sustain this momentum, the ministry has urged stakeholders to maintain strict adherence to export standards and phytosanitary protocols.
The regulatory framework for this trade was established in April 2025, when Cambodia and China signed formal export protocols. Currently, Cambodia possesses over 16,000 hectares of durian plantations with an annual production capacity exceeding 135,000 tonnes. With 112 orchards now holding Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification, durian has become one of 17 Cambodian agricultural products officially approved for the Chinese market.
Source: Phnom Penh Post
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