Indonesia Boosts Durian Exports to China with Direct Frozen Shipments

The Indonesian Quarantine Agency (Barantin) is spearheading a significant move to enhance Indonesia's standing in the global agricultural supply chain through the direct export of frozen durian to China. This landmark shipment, comprising 459 tons of frozen durian valued at Rp42.5 billion (approximately $2.6 million USD), marks a pivotal moment, establishing a direct distribution channel that bypasses traditional intermediary countries.

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China's market access was built through a long process since the bilateral meeting in Labuan Bajo in July 2023 until the signing of the frozen durian export protocol on May 25, 2025.

Barantin Head Sahat M. Panggabean highlighted that this achievement is the result of extensive cross-sector collaboration, involving farmers, businesses, regional governments, and various ministries. The path to the Chinese market was a lengthy one, commencing with bilateral discussions in Labuan Bajo in July 2023 and culminating in the signing of the frozen durian export protocol on May 25, 2025. Since the protocol's implementation until April 15, 2026, Indonesia has already dispatched 151 containers of frozen durian to China, totaling 4,077 tons and valued at Rp377.5 billion (approximately $23.3 million USD).

Previously, Indonesian durian exports to China were routed through countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. The new direct route slashes shipping times from approximately 56 days to a mere 22–26 days, significantly improving logistics efficiency and reducing costs. This streamlined process not only enhances the cash flow for businesses and accelerates national production cycles but also aligns with the national agenda of downstreaming the agricultural sector by promoting value-added exports. Durian is now being processed into internationally standardized frozen products, moving beyond its traditional fresh market.

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The potential and opportunities for export are very large to be developed in Indonesia.

Governor of Central Sulawesi, Anwar Hafid, emphasized that this direct export success solidifies the region's status as a key durian producer nationally. He views this as a crucial opportunity for Central Sulawesi to emerge as a major player in the global durian market. With China's annual durian import demand estimated at $8 billion USD, Indonesia is poised to capture a larger share of this lucrative market, presenting immense potential for further development within the country.

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This is a momentum for Central Sulawesi to appear as a major player in the durian commodity in the global market.