PRICES of durian have been slashed by as much as 50 per cent as heavier rainfall in May and June in Malaysia, the main source of the fruit here, has led to a greater supply.
Popular varieties like Mao Shan Wang (Musang King), a premium durian known for its creamy texture and bittersweet taste, go for as little as $15 per kg at some stalls here, down from a peak of $35 per kg last month.
Prices of non-premium varieties like D101 or D13, which had earlier averaged around $13 per kg, have also dropped to below $10 per kg.
Sellers said their business has picked up in the past week, with their stocks depleted faster.
At Ah Seng Durian at Ghim Moh Market, daily supplies of Mao Shan Wang are often fully reserved by the early part of the the day and long queues can be spotted daily at the stall.
Likewise, Goh Kwee Leng, 65, owner of 717 Trading, said business has picked up in the last week.
“Previously, customers were buying maybe one or two durians.
“Now, they are buying seven or eight, nine or 10,” he added.
Prices for premium durians had peaked at around $35 per kg early last month, due to a poor harvest in April.
There is better news for durian lovers ahead.
Peter Saw, 36, a seller from Delight Fruit, said prices are likely to drop further as a bigger supply is expected with the next round of harvests.
janlee@sph.com.sg
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