The Department of Agriculture (DA) said the Philippines has made its first frozen durian shipment with a total value of P8.2 million and will reach China this weekend.
According to the DA, Maylong Enterprises Corp. shipped 1,050 boxes of frozen durian meat and 300 boxes of durian paste last February 11 to Nansha District, Guangzhou, China.
The DA said in a statement Thursday the Davao-based company is the first Philippine enterprise approved by the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China to export frozen durian meat and paste.
“From the fertile soils of Davao Region to China’s bustling markets, our frozen durian represents the hopes and dreams of countless farmers. This achievement showcases what we can accomplish through shared vision and purpose,” said Macario Gonzaga, DA-Davao Region executive director.
Meanwhile, May Li, Maylong chief operating officer, said the main goal of the shipment “is to bridge the gap between local farmers and the global stage, ensuring that Philippine durian earns the recognition it truly deserves.”
Amid the development, local industry leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining the highest production standards of local fruits.
Emmanuel Belviz, Durian Industry Association of Davao City president, said maintaining quality is essential to safeguarding the global reputation of the Philippine durian.
Similarly, Larry Miculob, Durian Exporters Association of the Philippines president, pointed out durian’s significant role in sustainable agriculture, cultural heritage and national pride.
Based on latest available data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, as of end-2023, the country produced 78,284.57 metric tons (MT) of durian, up by 5.6 percent from 74,158.36 MT in 2022.
