With Thai durian selling fast to Chinese connoisseurs, questions have arisen over whether the phenomenon is just hype or signals a promising future for the king of fruits. Aat Pisanwanich, director of the Center for International Trade Studies under the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC), says Thai durian has bright prospects in the short term. The Philippines is actively expanding durian production, especially in the typhoon-free areas in Mindanao. In 2017, world durian production reached 2.2 million tonnes, with demand estimated at only 700,000 tonnes, according to statistics from the World Trade Atlas. Mr Aat says the government should come up with better durian production and quality management to cope with future risks.

Source: Bangkok Post May 29, 2018 21:45 UTC