Indonesian durian producers are optimistic about their prospects in the global market, particularly as China strengthens its position as the world’s largest durian importer. Industry figures emphasize that Indonesia’s production capacity stands far above Malaysia’s, reinforcing calls to recognize durian as the nation’s official fruit. Citing 2024 data, experts note that Indonesia holds 21 of the world’s 27 known durian species and has registered 114 superior varieties, highlighting the country’s substantial biodiversity and competitive advantage in the region.
While Malaysia continues to promote its premium varieties such as Musang King, Black Thorn, and D24—exported to more than 40 destinations including China, South Korea, the UK, and the UAE—industry leaders stress that the growing market creates ample room for both nations. Malaysia’s durian exports amounted to MYR 1.18 billion (USD 285 million) in 2024, with projections reaching MYR 1.8 billion by 2030. Malaysian representatives affirm that efforts to elevate durian as a national symbol are meant to celebrate heritage rather than claim exclusivity, acknowledging the shared cultural legacy between the two countries.
