DFNet - All about Tropical Fruit

05/08/2026

Mangosteen prices plunge below $1/kg at farm gate amid bumper harvest
June 26, 2026 | vnExpress |

Mangosteen prices in southern Vietnam have fallen to their lowest levels in years due to abundant harvests and increased market supply. Farmers are selling mangosteens for around VND25,000 (US$0.95) per kilogram, while retail prices have also declined significantly.

Favorable weather has increased fruit production, with some growers reporting harvests about 20% higher than the previous year. However, the combination of lower prices and rising production costs, including fertilizer and labor, has reduced or eliminated growers’ profits.

Traders reported purchasing substantially larger volumes of mangosteens than last year as supplies increased. According to the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, favorable growing conditions have boosted yields not only for mangosteen but also for other major fruits, including durian, mango, dragon fruit, and avocado, contributing to oversupply in the market.
https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/economy/mangosteen-prices-plunge-below-1-kg-at-farm-gate-amid-bumper-harvest-5089403.html

03/08/2026

Mangosteen prices plunge below $1/kg at farm gate amid bumper harvest
June 26, 2026 | vnExpress |

Mangosteen prices in southern Vietnam have fallen to their lowest levels in years due to abundant harvests and increased market supply. Farmers are selling mangosteens for around VND25,000 (US$0.95) per kilogram, while retail prices have also declined significantly.

Favorable weather has increased fruit production, with some growers reporting harvests about 20% higher than the previous year. However, the combination of lower prices and rising production costs, including fertilizer and labor, has reduced or eliminated growers’ profits.

Traders reported purchasing substantially larger volumes of mangosteens than last year as supplies increased. According to the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, favorable growing conditions have boosted yields not only for mangosteen but also for other major fruits, including durian, mango, dragon fruit, and avocado, contributing to oversupply in the market.

Farmers in the south are selling mangosteens to traders at VND25,000 (US$0.95) per kilogram, the lowest level in years due to a supply glut.

01/08/2026

Why in-season durian prices in China have dropped 30%... here's the reason
July 21, 2026 | The Asia Business Daily |

The launch of a refrigerated freight train linking Thailand, Laos, and China has significantly improved the efficiency of durian transportation, reducing prices and increasing the availability of fresh imported fruit in China. The rail route connects Thailand’s Laem Chabang Port with Chengdu via Laos and Yunnan, offering faster, lower-cost, and more reliable logistics than previous sea or road transport.

Previously, durian shipments took five to seven days and experienced spoilage rates of up to 30%, contributing to high retail prices. With the new refrigerated rail service, customs clearance and sorting can be completed within about 90 minutes after arrival in Chengdu, allowing rapid distribution to more than 30 major Chinese cities.

Consumers have reported price reductions of up to 30% and improved fruit quality, while wholesalers note lower transportation risks and reduced losses. Since operations began, the service has delivered more than 1,000 tons of durians, with sales increasing by an estimated 40–50% compared with the previous year, highlighting the growing importance of refrigerated rail logistics for Southeast Asian fruit exports to China.
https://www.asiae.co.kr/en/article/2026072114085315292

30/07/2026

Imported durian from Thailand falls 36.67%, no issue of dumping, says Chan
July 21, 2026 | The Star |

Malaysia reported a 36.7% decline in durian imports from Thailand during the first half of the year, indicating that imported fruit is not the main cause of current oversupply. Officials stated that Thai imports account for only about 2% of domestic production, while the peak local harvest season has created excess supply.

To stabilize the market, the government is implementing seasonal fruit intervention measures, including purchasing durians and other fruits through the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA). Authorities are also supporting sales through entrepreneur networks.

For long-term market development, Malaysia is exploring new land and sea export routes for fresh durians to China, alongside ongoing air shipments. The government is also reviewing support measures for farmers, including the minimum purchase price for local durians, to help reduce losses during periods of low market prices.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2026/07/21/imported-durian-from-thailand-falls-3667-no-issue-of-dumping-says-chan

28/07/2026

DFNet – Tropical Fruit Newsletter 72

This issue includes 4 recent research publications and 14 news articles.

Key studies highlight climate resilience of tropical fruit species under changing environmental conditions, hyperspectral detection of papaya ringspot virus, and natural approaches to reducing enzymatic browning in breadfruit.

In the news, major stories cover Malaysia’s expansion of durian tourism, Vietnam’s premium pomelo exports to Australia, and Oman’s first successful pineapple.

For more information, please visit DFNet website.

27/07/2026

Why over 14500 hectares across India are now being used for dragon fruit farming
May 21, 2026 | The Better India |

Dragon fruit cultivation in India is expanding rapidly as farmers seek climate-resilient and profitable alternatives to traditional crops. The cultivation area increased from 5,300 hectares in 2022 to more than 14,500 hectares in 2024, while production rose from 21,220 to 53,720 metric tonnes. Southern states, particularly Andhra Pradesh, have become major production centers.

Farmers are increasingly attracted to dragon fruit because it tolerates high temperatures, requires relatively little water, and performs well under drip irrigation systems. The crop can be grown on dry or marginal land and offers higher returns than many conventional crops due to strong consumer demand for its nutritional benefits, including high fiber and antioxidant content.

Once established, dragon fruit plants can remain productive for many years, making them a long-term investment. Successful cultivation requires sunny locations, well-drained soils, stem cuttings for propagation, sturdy support structures, controlled irrigation, and regular pruning.

As climate variability and water scarcity become growing concerns, dragon fruit is emerging as a viable option for farmers across several Indian states. Its combination of drought tolerance, market demand, and income potential is driving wider adoption and contributing to the diversification of India’s horticultural sector.

https://thebetterindia.com/farming/dragon-fruit-farming-india-climate-resilient-crop-water-shortage-harsh-weather-easy-crop-to-grow-11858432

27/07/2026

Plum rains can bring mites and bugs to pomelos
May 20, 2026 | Taipei Times |

The Tainan District Agricultural Research and Extension Station has urged pomelo growers to strengthen monitoring and preventive measures against long-horned beetles and citrus rust mites as Taiwan enters the plum rain season. High humidity and frequent rainfall create favorable conditions for pests and diseases, including fungal infections such as anthracnose and fruit rot, as well as bacterial diseases.

Long-horned beetles are a major concern from June to mid-July. Their larvae feed on citrus roots, disrupting water and nutrient uptake, which can cause yellowing leaves, premature fruit ripening, yield losses, and even tree death. Growers are advised to improve orchard sanitation, remove fallen debris, and use traps such as wooden boards or rolled newspapers to capture eggs before they hatch.

The station also warned of increased risk of citrus rust mites, which damage pomelo peels by feeding on fruit surfaces and causing brown or black discoloration known as “blackened” pomeloes. Warmer temperatures and sunnier conditions this year may increase infestations. In addition to pesticide use, growers are encouraged to prune trees to improve airflow and sunlight pe*******on, helping reduce mite populations and protect fruit quality.

https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/05/20/2003857655

22/07/2026

Durian can serve as cultural bridge between Malaysia and France
June 11, 2026 | The Straits Times |

Malaysia is promoting durian as a cultural and economic bridge with France, highlighting shared values surrounding gastronomy, local identity, and agricultural heritage. French Ambassador Marc Abensour compared Malaysian durian to French cheese, noting that both products are known for their strong aromas while representing regional diversity, tradition, and craftsmanship.

Speaking at a conference on the cultural significance of durian, Abensour described the fruit as an important symbol of Malaysia’s identity and suggested it could eventually gain recognition at France’s International Agricultural Show. He also highlighted the global success of premium varieties such as Musang King, which has become highly sought after in China.

Industry representatives emphasized the importance of innovation and quality assurance in supporting durian exports. Air Liquide Malaysia showcased cryogenic freezing technology that helps preserve the fruit’s quality for international markets. Meanwhile, DSR Taiko highlighted its Musang King Integrated Tracking System (M-KITS), which provides farm-to-tree traceability and supports certification standards such as MyGAP, Halal, GMP, and HACCP.

The conference explored durian’s cultural heritage, terroir, and global market potential, underscoring its role in strengthening Malaysia’s international image and expanding export opportunities.
https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/06/1460755/durian-can-serve-cultural-bridge-between-malaysia-and-france

20/07/2026

More than just a fruit: The many faces of Shetou’s guavas
June 10, 2026 | Taiwan panorama |

Shetou Township in Changhua County is one of Taiwan’s leading guava-producing regions, supported by fertile sandy loam soil, irrigation from the Zhuoshui River, and a long history of guava cultivation dating back to the 1960s. The area grows a wide range of guava varieties, including Pearl, Emperor, Red Ruby, Red Diamond, Green Jade, Jintsui, and Perfume, with modern cultivation techniques enabling year-round production.

Local farmers and the Shetou Farmers’ Association (SFA) have shifted toward quality-focused production and value-added processing. Beyond fresh fruit sales, the SFA has developed products such as guava bud–leaf tea, dried guava, guava juice, and guava popsicles. Guava bud–leaf tea, produced using traditional tea-making methods, is caffeine-free and has been shown to possess antioxidant properties and potential blood sugar-lowering effects. Processed products also provide a market for lower-grade fruits that might otherwise go to waste.

Through varietal diversification, improved cultivation methods, and product innovation, Shetou has built a sophisticated guava industry that enhances farm income while showcasing the commercial potential of Taiwan’s guava sector.
https://www.taiwan-panorama.com/en/Articles/Details?Guid=c214146f-decd-45d0-93d5-c74d42532121&CatId=9&postname=More%20Than%20Just%20a%20Fruit%3A-The%20Many%20Faces%20of%20Shetou%E2%80%99s%20Guavas

16/07/2026

South China's Guangzhou boasts world's largest lychee gene bank, housing nearly 800 varieties
May 30, 2026 | Bastille Post Global |

China’s largest lychee gene bank in Guangzhou preserves nearly 800 varieties and is driving innovation through advanced breeding and research. The collection includes lychee varieties from China and abroad, serving as a valuable resource for biodiversity conservation and cultivar development.

A major scientific breakthrough is the world’s first lychee–longan hybrid, produced after 11 years of research. Scientists achieved this rare cross-species hybridization despite the natural incompatibility between the two fruits. Researchers are also developing new varieties such as the “Ice Cream Lychee,” known for its smooth texture and superior eating quality, although commercial production remains several years away.

Beyond breeding, scientists are investigating the nutritional properties of lychees, including their high levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a compound associated with improved mood and sleep. Advanced technologies such as sensors, big data, and real-time monitoring are accelerating variety evaluation and selection.

China, which accounts for about 70% of global lychee production and has a lychee industry valued at approximately US$4.4 billion, aims to develop higher-quality, disease-resistant varieties. These innovations could increase farmer incomes, reduce pesticide use, improve export competitiveness, and provide consumers with more diverse fruit options.
https://www.bastillepost.com/global/article/5895234-south-chinas-guangzhou-boasts-worlds-largest-lychee-gene-bank-housing-nearly-800-varieties