The first agreement, between Davao-based durian exporter Eng Seng Food Products and Chinese firm Somago (Tianjin) Cross-border E-commerce, will establish a $17 million strategic cooperation framework, the Philippine Information Agency reported.
The second deal, between SumaiGou and Maylong Enterprises Corp., covers the procurement of $10 million worth of frozen durian.
The deals, signed during the 9th China International Import Expo 2026 earlier this month, include durian varieties like Puyat, Monthong, and D101, among others, according to Mindanao Times.
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A farmer harvests a durian atop a durian tree inside a farm in Davao city, southern Philippines Aug. 19, 2011. Photo by Reuters |
Davao City-based Eng Seng exports fresh and frozen durian to China and works with around 2,000 farmers. Maylong, meanwhile, has obtained the required qualifications to ship frozen durian pulp to the Chinese market.
Somago, operating under Tianjin’s Jizhou District integrated development strategy, seeks to buy and distribute frozen durian across the Chinese market, Inquirer reported.
Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra, the Philippines’ Agriculture Assistant Secretary, said the two deals highlights the business opportunities available through the expo.
“Beyond showcasing what the Philippines can offer, we want to see our farmers, fisherfolk, and agri-enterprises benefit from meaningful trade agreements and increased export opportunities,” she said, as quoted by the Philippine News Agency.
China, the world’s largest market for durian, bought approximately $7.49 billion worth of the fruit last year.
Its appetite for durian has grown further in 2026, with imports surging 47% year-on-year in the first half, the South China Morning Post reported.
Thailand led suppliers during the period, shipping $3.79 billion worth of durian and capturing 81% of the market. Vietnam ranked second, with exports valued at $846 million, accounting for an 18% share.
Malaysia and the Philippines were among the other suppliers that hold minuscule shares of the market.