On August 25, 2024, the first batch of fresh Malaysian durians arrived at Zhengzhou Airport in China, marking the official commencement of trade and sales of this highly sought-after fruit in the Chinese market. Dole was among the pioneering companies to introduce fresh Malaysian durians to China. To celebrate this milestone, a launching ceremony for Dole's Musang King durians was held the following day. The event, attended by representatives from the Malaysian Consulate General in Shanghai and the Malaysian Durian Association, highlighted the full-scale launch of this premium product in China.
On August 26, Dole hosted the official launch ceremonies at both the Shanghai Huizhan Market and Zhengzhou Wanbang Market. The event brought together the Malaysian Consulate General, representatives from the Malaysian Durian Association, senior executives from Dole China, distributor partners, and other distinguished guests.
In anticipation of the 2024 Malaysian fresh durian export agreement to China, Mr. Yang Zhenyu, General Manager of Dole China, led a specialized durian team on a visit to Malaysia's core durian production areas. After multiple rounds of consultations with top orchards, Dole selected growers who met its stringent quality control and product standards, ensuring the success of this inaugural shipment.
Dole's Malaysian Musang King durians will be available during the two main harvest seasons, June-September and December-February, in high-end supermarket chains like OLE and citysuper, as well as wholesale markets across China.
Fruits are ripe on the tree, freshly transported by air, and can reach customers' tables within 48 hours of falling from the trees
Dole's fresh Musang King durian is harvested from core production areas such as Pahang, Malaysia. It grows in hilly areas with abundant sunshine and rain. The unique planting base and the top selection in the core production area give Musang King a unique and luxurious taste.
Beyond being a culinary delight, the Musang King durian, distinguished by its unique five-star mark, symbolizes status and prestige, often given as a high-end gift. Dole plans to introduce additional packaging and product combinations to cater to the diverse needs of consumers who seek this premium fruit.
Dole closely monitors domestic consumption trends, and the rising popularity of durians in China has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, China imported 1.426 million tons of fresh durians, a 73% increase from the previous year, with an import value of $6.7 billion. As durian continues to top the fruit import charts, its rich nutritional profile, including various vitamins, amino acids, and minerals, has made it a favorite among Chinese consumers.
The successful launch of Dole's Malaysian Musang King durians further enriches Dole's durian offerings, positioning the company to deliver an exceptional durian experience to Chinese consumers.
Source: Dole, China Customs