Shanghai, Nov. 6, 2024 — The inaugural International Durian Industry Innovation and Development Summit, themed “Standardization, Digitalization, and Innovative Cooperation,” concluded this afternoon at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai, China. As a highlight of the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) with a distinctive RCEP focus, the summit was hosted by the International Durian Association and brought together government representatives from major durian-producing nations, relevant Chinese government departments, and key figures from the global industry. Officials, researchers, industry associations, and business leaders gathered to explore the future of the durian industry, standards development, digital technology applications, and international collaboration, united by a shared vision to support the sector’s sustainable growth.

In his opening remarks, Secretary-General of the International Durian Association Mr. Albert Liu emphasized the critical importance of digital transformation and standardization for boosting the industry’s competitiveness and efficiency. Philippines Assistant Secretary of Department of Agriculture Mr. Philip C Young highlighted the country’s advancements in durian cultivation and expressed hopes of strengthening ties with the International Durian Association, envisioning a future where the Philippines’ premier “Puyat” durian reaches households across China.

During his address, SF Express Vice President Zhou Haiqiang outlined the pivotal role of digital and intelligent logistics in expediting cross-border shipping and ensuring a reliable global durian supply chain. Xie Cheng, Executive General Manager of the Hainan International Commodity Exchange, introduced the “HICEX+” industrial service model, proposing a multidimensional digital and financial support network for the durian trade. He expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with the International Durian Association on resource integration and financial support initiatives. Nguyen Thi Lan Huong, Chair of the Vietnam Digital Agriculture Alliance, underscored the progressive development of Vietnam’s durian industry, citing digital and standardized practices as pathways to expanding its global reach.

In a comprehensive analysis of global durian industry standardization, International Durian Association Standards Committee Chair Cheng Meng described standardization as the cornerstone for sustainable industry growth, enabling fair competition in international markets. Cheng noted that establishing a unified global standard would elevate the quality and competitiveness of the durian industry on the world stage. Meanwhile, SF Express and Thailand’s Royal Orchard Group formalized a strategic partnership, marking a significant step forward in cross-border durian logistics and launching a “Durian Industry Standards” initiative.

Terry Lin, Director of the Digital Cultivation Standards Committee of the International Durian Association, highlighted the potential of merging traditional growing expertise with modern technology through data-driven solutions, smart irrigation, and pest control optimization. Lin introduced the concept of “heritage digital cultivation,” facilitated by artificial intelligence to empower a new generation of durian cultivators. He underscored that standardization is foundational to global collaboration. Malaysian companies LKE and Agrionex also signed a strategic partnership, deepening their collaboration in digital standards and initiating the drafting of a “Digital Cultivation Standard.”

Representing a regional perspective, Guo Lijun, Deputy Director of the Durian Research Center at Hainan’s Academy of Agricultural Sciences, presented on “China’s Role in Regional Durian Development.” Guo emphasized that Hainan’s favorable free trade port policies create unique opportunities for industry expansion. The International Durian Association aims to expedite the development of a global durian processing and innovation hub in Hainan’s Chengmai county, accelerating the sector’s move toward internationalized, high-end growth. Looking ahead, the International Durian Association aims to deepen partnerships worldwide, working with organizations like the International Energy Storage Association, the International Federation of Public Procurement Societies, and France based International FoodTech Inclusive Institute. Together, they envision a global platform for resource-sharing and collaborative innovation to lay a solid foundation for durian industry standardization and digitalization. The association is committed to advancing a robust and sustainable future for the durian market, opening broader opportunities for durian consumption on the world stage.