Premium Durians Now Affordable as Prices Plummet by Over 50%

Durian lovers rejoice as premium varieties such as Musang King and Black Thorn, once considered exclusive treats, are now accessible to a wider audience. Prices for these sought-after fruits have plummeted by 50% or more, making them a 'marhaen' (common folk) delight.

In Seriab, Kangar, Musang King durians are now priced between RM10 and RM15 per kilogram. This is a stark contrast to last year's prices, where top-grade Musang King commanded around RM28 per kilogram. Similarly, Black Thorn durians, previously retailing at RM45 per kilogram, are now available for RM25 to RM28.

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When there is a surplus of durian this season, the price drops sharply, and for us as traders, it's enjoyable when more consumers can buy and enjoy Musang King, for example, which was previously considered exclusive.

Durian sellers like Muhamad Hafiz Yussof, 34, attribute the dramatic price decrease to a significant surplus of fruit this season. He explained that the simultaneous harvest from major producing states such as Penang, Pahang, Johor, Kelantan, and Terengganu, coupled with an increase in the cultivation of premium varieties, has led to an oversupply. Hafiz anticipates that prices could even drop further, potentially reaching RM10 per kilogram for Musang King if the surplus continues.

Consumers like Loo Min Chon, 51, are seizing the opportunity to indulge in premium durians like Udang Merah, Black Thorn, and IOI, which were previously too expensive. Saaidan Lateh, 59, a retiree, noted that this rare situation benefits many who could not previously afford these luxury fruits, allowing them to enjoy them at much lower prices.

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The situation like this rarely happens and it greatly benefits consumers to enjoy premium durian at a cheap price compared to before.