China’s durian demand and Indonesia’s plans ^{CEFR B2}

Strong Chinese demand for durian is changing production and trade in Southeast Asia and putting Indonesia at the centre of new export plans. In 2024 China imported roughly 1.56 million metric tons of durians valued at USD 6.99 billion, accounting for about 95 percent of global durian exports. Indonesia produces around 2 million tons a year, the largest national output, but most fruit is eaten domestically.

The Indonesian government has pushed for Chinese investment in durian cultivation. In 2023 officials proposed offering 5,000 hectares in North Sumatra and Sulawesi to potential Chinese investors, naming Humbang Hasundutan Regency as one possible site. One proposal would send 70 percent of the yield to China; the plan was reportedly mentioned by then‑President Joko Widodo during a dinner with Xi Jinping in Chengdu. Indonesia now exports mainly durian paste, and some frozen fruit reaches China via re‑exports from Thailand. A direct trade agreement to ship whole durians would shorten transit times and create a more direct supply chain—Chinese Ambassador Wang Lutong has said talks are ongoing.

Farmers and investors are expanding plantings, and places such as Palu in Central Sulawesi are already known for Montong durians. Durian trees take at least five years to bear fruit and can live up to a hundred years; one local expert said about 30 warehouse investors are interested and estimated roughly ten years of development and training will be needed to raise quality and consistency.

The durian boom brings clear economic opportunity but also environmental risk. In Thailand orchard area has tripled in 12 years, and in Vietnam some coffee farmers have shifted to durian because it can be much more profitable. Reports from Malaysia and Laos point to deforestation, loss of Indigenous land and threats to wildlife. Some commentators argue that developing primary forest for plantations can benefit villagers and local government, and that scientifically planned durian plantations can support biodiversity; others warn that large monocultures reduce biodiversity and harm local livelihoods.