FOR years, durian was seen as a “golden crop”, especially due to strong demand from China for premium varieties like Musang King. Prices were high, and thousands of acres of oil palm were cleared to make way for durian orchards, with many individuals also venturing into the space.
But the thorny reality is now emerging in 2026. After years of waiting for trees to mature, the market is now in oversupply, as almost everyone planted durian during the boom years, and the harvest is now coming in at the same time, flooding the market.
This season also happens to be one with a bumper harvest.
There are significant costs involved in maintaining durian orchards, including fertilisers, labour, and electricity.
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