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In a groundbreaking achievement, Maylong Enterprises Corp., a Davao City-based company, has become the first Philippine enterprise to secure approval and official listing from China’s General Administration of Customs to export frozen durian meat and frozen durian paste. This milestone marks a significant breakthrough in the expansion of the international market for Philippine durian.

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On February 11, 2025, Maylong Enterprises Corp. dispatched a shipment of 300 boxes of frozen durian paste and 1,050 boxes of frozen durian meat, valued at Php 8.2 million, to Nansha District, Guangzhou Province, China. The shipment is expected to arrive on February 18, 2025, and is certified under Phytosanitary Certificate Nos. W 473547 – DVO and W 473548 – DVO.

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This remarkable achievement was made possible through the collaboration of government agencies, including the Department of Agriculture-Region XI (DA-RFO XI) and the Bureau of Plant Industry-Plant Quarantine Service (BPI-PQS) Port of Davao, which played a crucial role in ensuring the shipment met China’s strict customs requirements.

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During the official send-off ceremony, attended by key officials such as Mr. Macario D. Gonzaga, Regional Executive Director of the DA RFO XI, Ms. Flor de Hasmin C. Bayo, OIC-Regional Manager of the BPI-PQS Port of Davao, Mr. Emmanuel Belviz, President of the Durian Industry Association of Davao City (DIADC), Mr. Larry Miculob, President of the Durian Exporters Association of the Philippines (DEAP), and Shiela Kalaw, representative of CMA CGM, Maylong Enterprises Corp. expressed their sincere gratitude and shared their vision. This milestone highlights the company’s commitment to quality and excellence, positioning it as a key player in the global durian trade.

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In her heartfelt welcome speech, Ms. May Li, Chief Operating Officer of Maylong Enterprises Corp., shared her passion for empowering Davao’s durian growers to reach a global audience. Her ultimate vision is to bridge the gap between local farmers and international markets, ensuring that Philippine durian receives the recognition and appreciation it deserves worldwide. With sincerity and conviction, Ms. Li reaffirmed her commitment to the welfare and success of the durian farmers, underscoring her dedication to their prosperity and well-being.

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Mr. Macario D. Gonzaga, Regional Executive Director of DA-RFO XI, proudly highlighted the historic milestone, “From the fertile soils of Davao Region to China’s bustling markets, our frozen durian represents the hopes and dreams of countless farmers. This achievement showcases what we can accomplish through shared vision and purpose,” He noted that this wasn’t Davao durian’s

first foray into the Chinese market, recalling the successful shipment of 28 metric tons of fresh durian on April 6, 2023.

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As he acknowledged the remarkable progress, Mr. Gonzaga expressed his deepest gratitude to the hardworking men and women behind this milestone. “We recognize the tireless efforts of our farmers, who have worked diligently to ensure the quality and freshness of our durians. We also appreciate the dedication of our exporters, who have navigated complex regulations to bring our products to the global market.” He further emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, saying, “This achievement is a testament to what can be accomplished when we work together towards a common goal.”

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Mr. Belviz emphasized the vital role of maintaining high standards in durian production to safeguard the global reputation of Philippine durian. He urged farmers to consistently produce premium fruit, ensuring the country’s durian remains competitive and exceptional in quality, thereby standing out in the international market.

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Mr. Belviz’s call to action is particularly significant, given the Philippines’ position as the fourth-largest durian exporter globally, with China accounting for 89% of these exports. As the demand for durian continues to grow, especially from China, local farmers must adhere to international quality and safety standards, addressing challenges such as post-harvest handling and quality control issues.

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The durian industry plays a vital role in the Philippines’ agriculture sector and economy, according to Mr. Miculob. As a major player in the export market, the industry generates significant revenue and creates livelihood thousands of opportunities farmers, traders, for and entrepreneurs. With the Philippines being home to some of the world’s best durian varieties, the industry promotes sustainable agriculture practices, preserves cultural heritage, and showcases the country’s unique biodiversity, making it a symbol of Philippine excellence and a source of national pride.

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The historic shipment of frozen durian meat and paste to China is a shining testament to the power of collaboration and determination. According to Ms. Bayo, this achievement wouldn’t have been possible also without the unwavering commitment of Maylong Enterprises’ owner, Ms. Li, to meet the stringent requirements set by General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC).

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The government played a key role in this achievement, with agencies like the DA-RFO XI and the BPI-PQS overseeing the smooth processing and clearance of the shipment. They offered technical expertise, assistance, and support in obtaining approval and official listing from GACC. In her speech, Ms. Bayo emphasized, “The durian producers also deserve recognition for their willingness to comply with China’s regulations, highlighting the significance of cooperation and teamwork.” This milestone marks a significant victory not just for Maylong Enterprises but for the entire Philippine durian industry. “As the country continues to expand its presence in international markets, this achievement promises growth, opportunity, and global recognition for the Philippines’ world-class produce”.

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Indeed, Maylong Enterprises Corp. has reaffirmed its commitment to driving the success of Davao’s durian farmers, products gain ensuring their international recognition and appreciation.

This development is expected to position the Philippines as a leading player in the global durian market, with China being a key partner.

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(021725-19)