Musang King Durian Prices Surge in Vietnam Amid Supply Shortages

Prices for Musang King durians in Vietnam have surged by nearly 56% in the past two weeks, with traders selling the fruit to retailers in Ho Chi Minh City for VND140,000 (US$5.39) per kilogram. This sharp increase is attributed to a decline in supply caused by adverse weather conditions. Traders reported that rainy weather has led to a significant portion of fruits at many orchards developing low quality and becoming unfit for harvest. Vo Tan Loi, chairman of the Dong Thap Durian Association, noted that prolonged rainfall during the fruiting period has affected numerous growing areas, resulting in 30-40% of Musang King durians in some regions developing unripe or poor-quality flesh. The Musang King variety, originally from Malaysia, is known for its cultivation challenges in Vietnam and significant quality variations between orchards, making it particularly vulnerable to unfavorable weather. Vietnam cultivates durians on approximately 200,000 hectares, with an annual output exceeding 2 million tonnes. Durian is a significant contributor to the country's fruit and vegetable exports, accounting for 32% of the trade in the first eight months of 2026. Exports were estimated at $1.95 billion during the period, a 28.3% increase year-on-year, with China being the top buyer, accounting for $1.85 billion in shipments. Dang Ngoc Diep, deputy minister of Agriculture and Environment, stated that working teams have been deployed to major durian-growing regions to collaborate with local authorities in addressing production and export bottlenecks. The ministry aims for durian exports of at least $3.85 billion this year, matching 2025 figures, with potential to reach $4 billion. Information source: VnExpress International