In 2023, Cambodia saw a 454% surge in its Pailin longan exports to China, shipping 17,000 tons of the fruit, as reported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
Despite this significant increase, Suos Siyat, the head of the Pailin Longan Agricultural Production Cooperative, highlighted on January 8 that the output was not exceptionally high. Siyat attributed this to adverse weather conditions such as salty or acidic dew, which negatively impacted the quality of the longans.
He also pointed out that water scarcity was an issue in some growing regions. "Although it wasn't a widespread problem, certain areas did experience water source issues. The longans' growth was impeded by these water shortages and dew conditions, which in turn led to a decrease in our product's quality and consequently, its prices," Siyat clarified.
He further explained that the price of the longans is subject to changes depending on their quality and the harvesting period. Despite having a market in China, Siyat noted that the cultivation of the fruit has not seen substantial growth.
"Prices fluctuate based on the contract of the company operating factories in Pailin province. For example, farmers receive 3,300 to 3,500 riel ($0.80-$0.85) per kg from August to December, and the price increases to 4,000 riel ($0.98) per kg from January to March. This fluctuation is due to the quality of the fruit," he added.
Source: phnompenhpost.com