China, recognized as one of the world’s largest fruit markets, has observed a significant increase in the importation of fresh fruits, including durian, cherry, kiwi, and avocado, to satisfy the rising domestic demand. In 2023, the country’s fruit import value escalated to 16.85 billion U.S. dollars, marking a 15 percent increase from the previous year, with a total import volume reaching 7.524 million tons, up 3 percent. Notably, fresh durian imports soared to 6.72 billion dollars, a 66 percent increase, positioning durian as the top imported fruit item in China.

The surge in fruit imports can be attributed to the easing of market entry conditions, improved customs clearance efficiency, and the development of cross-border cold chain logistics systems, enabling Chinese consumers to access a variety of fruits with enhanced affordability. The market has seen dynamic changes, especially in the durian segment, with Thailand and Vietnam being the primary suppliers. Despite the competitive market, the introduction of healthy competition has been beneficial, leading to more affordable prices for consumers, market access for Vietnamese durians, and record-high durian exports from Thailand to China.

Furthermore, China has facilitated fruit imports through initiatives such as granting market access, reducing tariffs, and implementing major projects like the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and the China-Laos Railway. These efforts have significantly enhanced the efficiency of fruit importation, exemplified by the direct shipping service for Chilean cherries and the surge in durian imports via the China-Laos Railway.