Davao city: The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) belied reports circulating online that China has stopped accepting Davao durian. DA-11 Regional Director Macario Gonzaga stated that the China market continues to import both raw and frozen durian products from the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gonzaga mentioned that upon receiving these reports, the department immediately reviewed and validated them through its Agribusiness Marketing Assistance Division (AMAD). The investigation concluded that the reports were indeed fake news. AMAD is tasked with monitoring export activities of local farmers and ensuring compliance with international market requirements.

Davao durian made its debut in the China market in April 2023, with the initial shipment consisting of approximately 18 metric tons of the Puyat, D-101, Cob, and Duyaya varieties. In an expansion of its export markets, Davao's premium durian reached Oman on July 27. Engseng Food Products shipped 56 boxes of fresh Puyat and Duyaya durians from Calinan's Belviz Farm to Muscat, marking a market trial.

The consignment, valued at approximately USD3,000 or PHP183,000, is set to be exported to Jeel Almaaly International in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, indicating growing international interest in Davao's durian products.