Commerce Ministry Launches Fruits Festival 2026, Bringing Premium Durian Varieties to Central Westgate
Thailand's Commerce Ministry launches Fruits Festival 2026 at Central Westgate, showcasing premium durian varieties and tropical fruits from Eastern and Northern regions while directly connecting farmers with consumers to boost sales and st
The Ministry of Commerce's Department of Internal Trade, partnering with Central Pattana Public Company Limited (CPN), is hosting the Fruits Festival 2026 under the concept "Thailand: The Land of Tropical Fruits" to promote Thai fruit consumption and create a direct link between farmers and consumers. The first day saw bustling activity with strong public interest in purchasing Thai fruits.
According to Witthayakorn Maninettr, Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, the event brings together approximately 32 vendors and farmers, particularly featuring prominent fruits from the Eastern and Northern regions including durian, mangosteen, rambutan, longan, and specialty mangoes, as well as melon and avocado. A major highlight is the collection of rare durian varieties from Chanthaburi such as Puangmonee, Gabthongkham, and Longchanbnuri, alongside renowned specialty mangoes including Nang Chang Daeng, Daeng Chakkraphan, R2E2, and Khiao Sam Ros.
The department is also bringing mangoes from Ban Hoeng District in Lamphun at a special price of just 15 baht per kilogram to support farmers directly. Due to an oversupply of mangoes this season, the Department of Internal Trade's efforts to connect retailers and wholesalers have helped stabilize prices in farming areas and improved market distribution opportunities.
Witthayakorn stated that the department is advancing forward connections to pre-market outlets to handle the steady flow of Thai fruits reaching the market, while promoting sales through online and live commerce channels. The department brings durian and Thai fruit vendors to department store events, making it easier for consumers to select and sample quality fruits while helping farmers expand market awareness and channels.
Current export-grade durian prices range from 140-150 baht per kilogram, considered a good level. However, maintaining Thai durian quality standards is paramount, with the government taking strict measures to prevent fraudulent or adulterated foreign durian. The authorities are requesting cooperation from farmers, dealers, and local buyers to prevent counterfeiting, as quality is the cornerstone of Thai fruits.
The Department of Internal Trade is connecting buyers to assist farmers, while damaged and non-processable produce will be handled by relevant agencies to prevent substandard durian from being mixed with quality fruits, following directives from the Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister to provide urgent relief to farmers.
The event also features special pricing promotions and workshops on fruit processing to add value to Thai agricultural products and foster participation between consumers and farmers.
The Fruits Festival 2026 runs from May 6-11, 2026 at Central Westgate's Level 1 promotion area, and from June 6-12, 2026 at Central Pinklao, daily from 10:00-21:00. The event is projected to sell no less than 150 tons of fruit and generate significant income for farmers.
