Bangkok, July 22 -- Thailand's Ministry of Commerce is seeking to boost the consumption and distribution of 300,000 tonnes of southern durian amid concerns over a potential supply glut following a decline in orders from China due to quality issues involving unripe fruit.

Wittayakorn Maneenetr, Director-General of the Department of Internal Trade, said durian output in southern Thailand is forecast to reach 752,515 tonnes this year, up 30% from the previous season. About 35% of the crop has already entered the market, leaving approximately 489,199 tonnes yet to be distributed.

He attributed the early-season price decline to China's temporary suspension of orders over quality concerns related to unripe durians, along with increased compet...