The provincial government of Cotabato Province is ramping up preparations for the Durian Exporters’ Dialogue scheduled on April 8, 2026, an initiative aimed at strengthening collaboration among farmers, exporters, and government agencies to expand the province’s durian export market.
The event, expected to bring together durian growers, exporters, national government agencies, and industry stakeholders, is part of the province’s broader push to enhance production, marketing, and the international competitiveness of its prized fruit.
The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist of Cotabato is currently finalizing key preparations for the dialogue, including compiling a list of registered and active durian exporters, gathering updated production data, and preparing presentations on export-quality durian varieties.
The office is also drafting proposals for a durian marketing hub and the launch of fruit tourism initiatives in the province.
Provincial Advisory Council member Amalia Datukan, representing Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza during the preparatory discussions, highlighted the importance of the upcoming dialogue.
She said the activity will serve as a bridge linking durian farmers, exporters, and government institutions to strengthen production and establish a more efficient marketing system that can open wider export opportunities.
Earlier this year, the province held its first Export Marketing Activity in the town of Makilala, Cotabato, where participants gained a clearer understanding of durian classification standards for export quality.
The activity also demonstrated the capability of Cotabato’s growers to meet international standards, with more than 60 percent of durian deliveries classified as Class A based on the grading conducted.
Provincial officials said the initiative has already yielded economic benefits, noting that buying prices for durian have increased to around P90 per kilogram, while the farm gate price has reached P70 per kilogram, providing better income opportunities for local growers.
The upcoming dialogue is expected to further strengthen the province’s durian industry by aligning production practices with export requirements while promoting Cotabato as a key supplier in the growing global durian market.
