In order to establish confidence in exported durians and maintain a lucrative market, China is encouraging Thailand to adopt World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) guidelines. Pichet Wiriyaphaha, Director-General of the Department of Agriculture, has consulted relevant agencies and representatives of China to increase confidence in durian exports to China during the COVID-19 outbreak. China is a big market for Thailand, and preparation of exports will take place from February to May 2021. Each year, durian exports to China are worth more than 50 billion baht (€1.4 bln). More than 140,000 farming households and other people in the durian business depend on the success of the export system.
Also, Alongkorn Polabutr, adviser to the Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister, has confirmed plans for expanding both local and international markets for the country’s fruit industry. The fruit board has earmarked Bt492 million (€14 mln) for increasing sales channels for fruit growers as well as launching promotion campaigns. According to thestar.com.my¸ it is also planning link up with the Chinese rail link via Laos as well as link up with markets in South Korea, Russia, Central Asia, the Middle East and Europe.