China’s durian demand and Indonesia’s plansCEFR A2
29 Jul 2025
Adapted from Hasya Nindita, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Mufid Majnun, Unsplash
In 2024 China imported about 1.56 million metric tons of durians, making up most global exports and worth USD 6.99 billion. Indonesia produces around 2 million tons a year, the largest output, but most fruit is eaten at home.
The Indonesian government is seeking Chinese investment and hopes a trade deal later this year will allow whole durians to be exported directly to China. Currently Indonesia mainly sends durian paste and some frozen fruit is re‑exported to China via Thailand. A direct agreement would shorten transport time and create a simpler supply chain.
Farmers and investors are expanding durian cultivation, but experts say quality and consistency must improve and that development and training will take time.
Difficult words
- import — to bring goods into a country for saleimported
- export — to send goods to another country to sellexports
- investment — money people or companies give for business
- supply chain — steps and people that move products to buyers
- cultivation — the process of growing plants or crops
- consistency — same quality or level over time
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How might shorter transport time help durian farmers or buyers?
- What kind of training could help farmers improve durian quality?
- Would you try whole durian if it were exported directly to your country? Why or why not?
