Phuket launches durian harvest season with expected yield of 599 tonnes
Phuket has officially opened its durian harvest season, with officials expecting about 599 tonnes of fruit from 2,613 rai of producing orchards this year.
Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn has officially opened the province’s durian harvest season at the large-scale durian farming project office in Srisoonthorn, Thalang, with this year’s output expected to reach about 599 tonnes.
The ceremony marked the symbolic first durian cut of the season, signalling that Phuket durians are ready for sale. Officials said the initiative is aimed at building consumer confidence by promoting the sale of fully ripened fruit and discouraging the marketing of immature durians.
Among those attending were Phuket Provincial Agricultural Officer Sirima Bangassareh, Thalang District Chief Wilailak Ruangphol, Srisoonthorn Mayor Chalermphon Kerdsap, Srisoonthorn large-scale durian farming project chairman Suthikit Tamchu, government officials and local farmers.
Sirima said Phuket has 945 durian-growing households, with about 70% cultivating native durian varieties and 30% growing commercial varieties. The province has 2,945 rai of durian cultivation area, including 2,613 rai currently producing fruit. Produce is expected to reach markets from June to August.
The event also included a durian exhibition, discussions on market prospects for seasonal fruit crops and workshops on harvesting techniques and starch-content testing to help ensure fruit quality. Specialists from the Phang Nga Provincial Agricultural Office, the Phuket Agricultural Research and Development Centre and the Land Development Station gave advice on production standards, soil management and biological pest-control methods.
Governor Nirat said the project supports Phuket’s development strategy by preserving and promoting high-quality local durian varieties while helping farmers raise income through improved production standards and marketing. He said the province plans to identify and conserve quality native varieties, develop standardized production processes, strengthen farmer groups and expand marketing efforts.
He also said durian tourism could offer visitors another way to experience Phuket beyond its beaches, through orchard visits, learning about local farming practices and supporting rural communities.
Separately, Srisoonthorn Municipality said its annual Srisoonthorn Fruit Road 2026 festival will be held from June 11 to 13. Mayor Chalermphon said last year’s event drew more than 30,000 visitors over two days and generated significant income for local farmers and businesses. This year’s festival will feature fresh fruit from local orchards, community products, local cuisine, cultural performances and concerts, with organizers expecting strong attendance from Thai and international visitors.
Officials said the combined events are intended to raise the profile of Phuket’s agricultural sector, create more tourism opportunities and support sustainable income for farming communities across the island.
