Shipments to China accounted for 70% of Thailand's total durian exports last year.
The department said the surge was driven by durian's growing popularity in China, as well as the easing of import restrictions, and Chinese consumers’ willingness to pay a premium for Thai durian, which is known for its high quality.
Strong demand for Thai durian is expected to continue in China, the world's largest market for durian.
Thailand is the world's largest exporter of durian.