The Department of Agriculture-Davao (DA-11) said Tuesday that Philippine durian gained another foothold in the Chinese market after a Davao-based exporter sealed a new sales contract during the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) 2026 in Nanning, Guangxi.

Raspina Tropical Fruits Inc., an exhibitor supported by DA-11, signed an agreement with Zhongshou Zhongxin (Guangxi) Import and Export Trading Ltd. for the purchase of 14 metric tons of fresh durian.

In a news release, DA-11 Regional Director Macario Gonzaga said the deal marks another step in bringing Davao’s world-class durian closer to Chinese consumers while creating more opportunities for local producers, consolidators, and exporters.

“The participation in CAEXPO continues to strengthen market linkages, promote high-value agricultural products and connect local enterprises with international buyers,” he said.

In April 2023, DA-11 shipped 18 metric tons of durian, marking the first-ever shipment to China.

China has opened a huge market for the Puyat, D-101, Cob and Duyaya varieties.

The first shipment aligned with the bilateral agreement on the protocol of Philippine fresh durian to the Republic of China signed during the state visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to China on Jan. 3, 2023.

“From the farms of Davao to the global marketplace, the region’s durian is steadily making its mark abroad,” Gonzaga said. (PNA)