Head of the Indonesian Agricultural Quarantine Agency (Barantin), Sahat Manaor Panggabean, confirmed that Indonesia has officially entered the Chinese market through direct exports of frozen durian.
Sahat explained that this policy ends Indonesia’s reliance on export routes through Thailand and opens access to high-value markets for leading domestic horticultural commodities.
“We can finally export directly after more than two years of negotiations with China’s quarantine authorities. Every stage, from plantations to processing facilities, now meets China’s CCC standards,” Sahat said during the launch of the first frozen durian export in Bogor, West Java, on Monday, December 15, 2025.
In addition to durian, Indonesia is also exporting mangosteen, bananas, pineapples, and ornamental plants directly to China. These commodities demonstrate the readiness of Indonesia’s quarantine system to meet international trade standards.
“It’s not just durian; mangosteen, bananas, pineapples, and ornamental plants are already being exported regularly. The market is wide open, and we must continue to encourage our exporter community,” Sahat added.
PT Zarafa Ridho Lestari Director Muchlido Apriliast noted that direct exports mark the end of Indonesia’s dependence on third-country trade channels. Previously, Indonesian durian shipments to China were recorded as Thai products despite originating domestically.
“China’s durian imports in 2023 reached around USD 8 billion, yet Indonesia had not secured a significant share. With this direct route, the potential for foreign exchange earnings is enormous,” he said.
The inaugural shipment consisted of 48 tons of frozen Montong durian from eight companies officially registered with Chinese authorities. The volume is considered strategic ahead of the surge in demand during the Lunar New Year celebrations in January.
“Whatever volume we send, the Chinese market will absorb it because Montong durian is highly sought after for its thick flesh. This is just the beginning, and by January we expect exports to rise significantly,” Sahat emphasized.
The government has ensured that the export program is supported by cross-ministerial coordination, including agriculture, trade, food, and local administrations. This synergy is aimed at sustainably expanding Indonesia’s export commodities into global markets.
Source: RRI
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<p>Time: November 2025<br /> By: WTO and International Trade Group, Legal Department – VCCI</p>
