Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, has a rich history that spans continents and centuries. From its origins in the vine cacti of Central and South America to its current status as a globally traded tropical fruit, dragon fruit has traveled far and wide.
Early records from Spanish conquistadors, priests, and historians in the 16th century first documented these unique cacti. By the mid-19th century, French missionaries had introduced dragon fruit to Indochina, setting the stage for its expansion across Southeast Asia. In the late 20th century, cultivation spread rapidly, and by 1995, Vietnam became the first country to export dragon fruit internationally, marking the beginning of large-scale global trade.
Over the following decades, production grew in China, Thailand, Indonesia, India, and eventually more than 30 countries worldwide, including Australia, the U.S., Israel, and parts of Africa. Today, dragon fruit enjoys growing demand across Europe, North America, and East Asia, reflecting its journey from a regional delicacy to a global agricultural commodity.
World Dragon Fruit Trade Timeline
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16th century – Spanish conquistadors, priests, and historians document vine cacti (Selenicereus), the ancestors of modern dragon fruit, in Central and South America.
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Mid-19th century – French missionaries introduce dragon fruit to Indochina (modern-day Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos).
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Late 20th century – Dragon fruit cultivation expands across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
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1995 – Vietnam becomes the first country to export dragon fruit to the global market, marking the start of large-scale international trade.
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2000s – China emerges as a major producer and exporter, alongside Vietnam. Thailand, Indonesia, and India also expand production for regional and international markets.
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2010s–2020s – Dragon fruit cultivation spreads to more than 30 countries, including Australia, the U.S., Israel, and parts of Africa. Global trade grows as demand rises in Europe, North America, and East Asia.
Over the years, the range of dragon fruit has expanded as backyard growers and agricultural researchers have developed new varieties, producing hybrids that are more productive, better flavored, and commercially viable for consumers. From just a handful of original fruits, the hybridized range of dragon fruit varieties has now grown into the thousands.
