How to export tropical products from Southeast Asia to China?

Southeast Asian traders from Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia enjoy distinct advantages in exporting agricultural products and foods to China.

Core Highlight: Tropical fruits and seafood from Southeast Asia are extremely popular among Chinese consumers, with top-sellers including durian, mangosteen, bird's nest, lobster, and young coconut.

Step 1: Obtain China's Market Access Qualifications

For fruits: Secure the Protocol for Exporting Fruits to China (already in place for Thai durian and Vietnamese dragon fruit).
Complete the filing on China Customs' Internet Plus Customs platform.

Step 2: Locate Chinese Buyers

E-commerce Platforms: Cooperate with Pinduoduo's "Cross-Border Import Channel", Hema Fresh, or JD Fresh Supply Chain.
Offline Channels: Participate in food exhibitions held in Guangzhou or Shanghai, or join the WeChat group "Southeast Asian Fruits - China Procurement".

Step 3: Establish Cold Chain Logistics

Thailand Route: Utilize the dedicated Bangkok-Guangzhou cold chain freight line for stable and efficient transportation.
Vietnam Route: Choose land transportation via Pingxiang or Dongxing ports for the fastest delivery speed.

Step 4: Packaging & Certification

Attach traceability labels and obtain valid phytosanitary certificates in strict accordance with Chinese regulatory requirements.
Partner with Chinese agents to share operational risks and streamline market entry procedures.

Step 5: Payment Collection

Adopt cross-border RMB settlement or use a Hong Kong-based company for fund collection to avoid exchange rate losses.

Success Case: A Thai durian exporter ships thousands of tons of durian to China annually, achieving a profit margin ranging from 30% to 50%.