1521. Geographical Indication (GI) Certification and Quality Improvement Technologies for Durian in Rayong Province, Thailand

In our previous Pick Up article, we summarized the findings from a field visit to durian farmers in Rayong Province, eastern Thailand, and outlined the characteristics of durian production in the region.

https://www.jircas.go.jp/en/program/proc/blog/20260604

This report provides a follow-up focusing on the geographical indication (GI) certification and quality improvement technologies applied to durian in Rayong Province.

Durian produced in Rayong Province is recognized for its high quality derived from the region’s unique geographical conditions, including climate and soil. As a result, it has been registered under Thailand’s geographical indication (GI) system as “Monthong Rayong Durian.” This certification protects the product as a regional brand and contributes to enhancing its added value.

In recent years, Rayong Province has promoted efforts to further improve quality through the introduction of advanced technologies. A notable example is the fruit-wrapping material “Magik Growth,” developed by the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) under the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA). Unlike conventional fruit bags, this material is made of nonwoven fabric that allows water and air to pass through while selectively controlling light wavelengths. In particular, it is designed to transmit red light, which enhances photosynthetic efficiency, promotes sugar accumulation, and optimizes the ripening process. These effects contribute to improvements in flesh color and taste. Experimental trials have demonstrated an approximately 10% increase in fruit weight and a reduction in rind thickness.

 Furthermore, the use of Magik Growth helps prevent the intrusion of pests, thereby reducing the need for pesticide applications. This represents a significant advantage in meeting residue pesticide regulations that are crucial for export markets.

 At the national level, the number of GI-certified durians in Thailand has been increasing, with multiple regions developing their own GI brands. According to the 2025 GI product revenue ranking published by Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property, “Khao Banthat Monthong Durian” from Trat Province ranked first with approximately 11.047 billion baht in sales, while “Monthong Rayong Durian” ranked third with approximately 4.886 billion baht. Additionally, four durian products were included among the top ten GI products, indicating strong domestic and international demand.

These findings indicate that durian in Thailand has evolved into a high-value agricultural product supported by GI certification and technological innovation. In Rayong Province, the integration of regional branding and advanced technology has contributed to simultaneous improvements in quality, safety, and profitability, and is expected to strengthen competitiveness in export markets.

(References)

NSTDA: Fruit wrapping bag Magik Growth offers better quality durian and reduces pesticide use

Department of Intellectual Property（2025）Top 10 most popular Thai GI products

（Only in Thai）

Contributor: KANAMORI Norihito, Southeast Asia Liaison Office