The Central Sulawesi government is intensifying efforts to boost durian exports by opening new sea distribution routes and strengthening partnerships between farmers and investors. With strong production potential and growing international demand—particularly from China—the region sees strategic value in improving logistics. According to Nelson Metubun, Head of the Central Sulawesi Food and Horticulture Office, shifting from air to sea freight reduces shipping time from 20 days to just 9–11 days, a crucial advantage for fresh durian exports. The planned route will connect Pantoloan Port in Donggala to Bitung, and then directly to China.
To support this initiative, the province is encouraging investment in durian production hubs and targeting the registration of up to 30,000 hectares of farmland, though currently only 3,600 hectares are officially recorded. Accurate land data will help form production clusters and streamline the supply chain. The government also plans to establish direct farmer-investor partnerships to increase price transparency and ensure higher profits for farmers. These efforts aim to elevate farmers’ roles from mere producers to active participants in the durian export value chain.
Wednesday, 11 June 2025 10:46
To Boost Durian Exports, Central Sulawesi Prepares to Open Sea Routes and Strengthen Farmer-Investor Partnerships
