Marketing and Export of Major Tropical Fruits from Thailand

Abstract

Thailand is one of the main producers of tropical fruits in the world. Although most of the tropical fruits produced in Thailand are domestically consumed, many have also been exported. In particular, more than 30% of total production of durian, longan and lychee have been exported. Thai fruits are popular among importing countries as they are of high quality. The Thai Government has set up the national policy for R&D focusing on improvement of quality, economic efficiency, marketing and trade. The present paper discusses the production, marketing and export of eight major fruits of Thailand, namely longan, durian, mangosteen, lychee, rambutan, mango, pummelo, and pineapple. Domestic and export markets, as well as strength and weakness of Thai fruit industry have also been discussed.