Planning a menu or an import programme around Thai produce is easier when you know what is in season. Thailand’s tropical climate means many items are available all year, but the best-known fruits follow a clear harvest calendar. This guide gives importers, distributors and chefs a practical overview.
Thailand’s three seasons in brief
- Hot season (around March to May): the start of the main tropical fruit season, led by mango.
- Rainy season (around June to October): peak for mangosteen, rambutan, longan and other fruits. Heavy rain can affect leafy vegetables and herbs, so quality and prices can vary.
- Cool season (around November to February): good conditions for vegetables grown in the northern highlands, such as lettuces, broccoli and other temperate crops.
Seasonal fruit calendar
| Fruit | Main season (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mango | March – June | Sweet ripe varieties and green mangoes for salads |
| Lychee | April – June | Mainly from northern Thailand |
| Mangosteen | May – August | Short season; plan programmes in advance |
| Rambutan | May – August | Often shipped with mangosteen |
| Longan | July – September | Off-season production extends availability |
| Pomelo | August – November | Some supply through the year |
Available year-round
Many of the items importers buy most often are available throughout the year:
- Fruit: young coconut, pineapple, papaya, banana, guava, dragon fruit
- Herbs: kaffir lime leaves, galangal, lemongrass, bird’s eye chili, pandan, banana leaves
- Vegetables: baby corn, Thai eggplant, morning glory, long beans, okra, Asian greens
How to use the calendar when planning orders
- Book seasonal fruit early. Mangosteen and rambutan seasons are short and demand is high.
- Expect variation in the rainy season. Leafy items can have shorter shelf life and higher prices; agree on specifications in advance.
- Combine seasonal and year-round items. Adding seasonal fruit to a regular mixed herb and vegetable shipment keeps freight costs per kilo lower.
- Ask for weekly availability. Harvest timing shifts with weather and region, so confirm with your supplier each week.
Harvest times vary by region and by year. For current availability and prices, see our fruit range, our vegetables and how we supply distributors and HoReCa, or contact our team.